Clinical Results of Conservative Treatment for Interdigital Neuroma

Purpose: The purpose of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness of low-dose gabapentin for interdigital neuroma. Metrials and Methods: Between April 2000 and June 2003, 32 patients (39 feet) with interdigital neuroma were treated with using low-dose gabapentin. Two of the 32 patients were male, and thirty were female, and the average age was 47.4 years. The follow-up was 6 to 44months (mean 15.1 months). All cases were diagnosed by physical examination and ultrasonography or MRI. Low-dose gabapentin (300-600 mg) was prescribed and shoe modification was recommended. The patients were evaluated through questionnaire. Results: Neuroma was found in twenty one cases at the third intermetatarsal space, and thirteen at the second intermetatarsal space. The sensitivity of ultrasonography was 96% and that of MRI was 79%. Overall satisfaction was rated as excellent or good by 18 cases (57%). Average pain relief ratio was 50.3%, and in 14 cases, more than 80% of pain relief was noted. Nine (28%) of 32 patients showed they had no activity restrictions, such as daily activities or work, whereas 8 (25%) had mild restrictions and 15 (47%) had major restrictions. Twelve of 15 patient with major restrictions had been treated operatively (neurectomy; 10 cases, decompression; 2 cases). One case had gastrointestinal problem. Conclusion: Low-dose gabapentin for interdigital neuroma was one of the effective conservative treatments. The operation may be preserved for patient with the persist symptoms, nevertheless the conservative treatments and use of low-dose gabapentin.ope