Neuroma Surgery and Direct Primary Care (DPC): Stepping Toward Comfort, Personalized
You are not the only one who has Morton’s neuroma and is limping in pain. More than 200,000 neuroma surgeries are done each year. But it can be hard to get treatment. With Direct Primary Care (DPC), this journey is easier because you get continuous, caring help that lets you walk without pain again.
How Neuroma Surgery Helps Nerve Pain
Neuroma surgery removes nerve tissue that has become thickened, which is usually in the foot (Morton's neuroma). Neurectomy (removal of a nerve) and decompression are two of the procedures. It takes 2 to 6 weeks to heal, but most people can get back to their normal lives quickly.
Patients should know this important information:
- For treating Morton’s neuroma and plantar nerve entrapment.
- Safety: There is a low chance of complications (5–10%), but numbness or recurrence are possible risks.
- Prices: Regular clinics charge between 3,000 USD and 7,000 USD, but DPC saves you 20% to 30% on those costs.
Risks of putting off care:
- Chronic pain that makes it hard to move around and have fun.
- Alterations in gait to compensate for joint issues.
- The costs of getting orthotics or injections over and over again put a strain on money.
How DPC Changes How Neuromas Are Treated
You have to pay between 150 USD and 300 USD a month to be a member of Direct Primary Care (DPC). Members can see a provider whenever they want, and the provider takes care of everything from diagnosis to rehab.
1. Making the right diagnosis and planning for surgery
- Organizing imaging: During visits, ask for an MRI or ultrasound to make sure the neuroma is there.
- Surgeons working together: You can get OR slots in weeks, not months.
- Before surgery, take care of your diabetes or blood vessel problems to help your body heal.
2. Clear costs and help all around
- Prices that cover everything: Add up the costs of the pre-op labs, the surgeon's fees, and the follow-up visits.
- DPC members pay between 2,400 USD and 5,600 USD, while traditional members pay more than 7,000 USD.
- Orthotic advice: To stop the problem from happening again, suggest custom inserts.
3. Taking care of recovery and prevention
- You can text your doctor about swelling, signs of infection, or pain whenever you want.
- Rehab plans: Work with podiatrists to get stronger and walk better.
- Footwear education: Teach people how to choose shoes that will ease pressure.
Real-Life Success Stories
- Case 1: Sarah, 45, has a Morton neuroma. Sarah's DPC clinic made arrangements for a neurectomy. She began running again after six weeks, which saved her 2,000 USD on orthotics.
- Case 2: Tom, who is 60 years old, has pain that comes and goes. Tom's DPC provider set up nerve decompression, so he didn't need to have another surgery.
Questions and Answers: DPC Neuroma Surgery
- Q: How long will it take for me to be able to walk after the surgery?
- A: Most people can walk the same day with a surgical shoe. You will be completely healed in four to six weeks.
- Q: Will I always be numb?
- A: It could happen, but it's usually better than pain. DPC goes over the good and bad things about the surgery.
- Q: Are there follow-ups included?
- A: Yes. You can talk about healing, shoes, or new symptoms without paying more.
What Makes DPC So Good at Podiatric Care
The American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons (ACFAS) says that continuity is very important. DPC gets things done by:
- Reducing wait times: Instead of the usual 6 weeks or more, 90% of patients have surgery within 2 weeks.
- Less chance of problems happening again: Following rehab rules 95% of the time cuts risks by half.
- Getting care in bundles saves members between 1,000 USD and 3,000 USD.
Final Thoughts
Neuroma surgery isn't just about cutting out a nerve; it's also about giving you back your ability to move around. With DPC, you have a partner who will help you get ready, help you heal, and give you advice on how to stay on your feet. No red tape or surprise bills—just help that never stops.
