Cryotherapy for neuroma involves applying cold temperatures to the affected nerve tissue, aiming to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain. This minimally invasive approach treats the abnormal nerve tissue, destroying it while leaving the native nerve intact and providing relief for individuals with neuroma symptoms.
Cryotherapy for Neuroma in Upper East Side NYC
Cryotherapy for Neuroma
Cryosurgery, also known as cryotherapy, is a medical procedure that uses extreme cold to treat neuromas. A neuroma is a benign growth of nerve tissue that can cause pain, tingling, or other sensory disturbances. Cryosurgery for neuromas involves using cold temperatures to destroy or remove the abnormal nerve tissue.
Here’s how cryosurgery for neuromas typically works:
1. Local Anesthesia:
The patient is usually given a local anesthetic to numb the area around the neuroma, ensuring that they do not feel pain during the procedure.
2. Cryoprobe Placement:
A small incision is made and a cryoprobe, which is a specialized instrument, is inserted into the area where the neuroma is located. The cryoprobe is then cooled to extremely low temperatures, using liquid nitrogen.
3. Freezing the Neuroma:
The cryoprobe generates freezing temperatures, which cause the abnormal nerve tissue of the neuroma to freeze and die. The freezing process destroys the defective nerve tissue and interrupts the pain signals.
4. Thawing:
After the freezing period, the cryoprobe is removed, allowing the tissue to thaw naturally.
5. Recovery:
Patients may experience some discomfort and swelling in the treated area after the procedure. However, this typically subsides within a few days to weeks.
Cryosurgery is considered a minimally invasive procedure, and is performed on an outpatient basis. It is a relatively quick procedure, patients can walk immediately after the procedure, and can usually return to their normal activities within a short time.
Cryosurgery can be an effective treatment for neuromas when conservative treatments like physical therapy or orthotics have not provided relief from symptoms. However, like any medical procedure, it carries some risks and potential side effects, including infection or scarring.
Consult one of our qualified podiatrists to determine whether cryosurgery is an appropriate treatment option for your specific neuroma and to discuss the potential benefits and risks.
