Foot pain can be frustrating because every day we use our feet! Morton’s neuroma is a common condition that affects the nerves in the foot, most commonly between the third and fourth toes. It is responsible for thickening or swelling of the tissue around one of the nerves leading to the toes. It is often caused by irritation, compression, or injury.
People with Morton’s Neuroma may have a variety of symptoms:
- Pain that is sharp, burning, or aching pain in the ball of the foot. Sometimes it can radiate into the toes.
- Sensations of tingling or numbness, especially between the toes.
- Some people describe feeling like there is a pebble or a lump in their shoe similar to a wadded up sock.
- The pain can be aggravated by standing, walking, or wearing tight shoes. It can be especially painful to wear shoes with a narrow toe box or high heels.
There are several different things that can cause Morton’s Neuroma. This first being poor shoe choice. Any type of shoe that puts undue pressure on the toes can contribute to the development of Morton’s Neuroma. High heeled shoes and shoes with very narrow or pointed toes can be a culprit. Activities that involve repetitive stress or pressure on the front of the foot, such as running or dancing, may also lead to the development of nerve pain. Even the simple shape and structure of your foot can also put you at greater risk for developing this condition. Flat feet, high arches, or any other abnormal foot mechanics can lead to increased pressure on the nerve. As with other conditions, any injury to the foot, like stubbing your toe or twisting an ankle, can also increase the risk of developing a neuroma.
Fortunately, there are many treatments available for Morton’s Neuroma and most people do well with the conservative therapies and achieve recovery from their nerve pain. The first recommendation will be to update your foot ware to make sure you are keeping your feet healthy and well supported. Shoe with a wide toe box and good arch support are a key ingredient to keeping feet healthy and happy. Sometimes, good shoes are not enough, and you need a little more support. That is where orthotics come in. Orthotics are special pads that are placed in your shoe that can help to provide more support and position your foot in a way that it will take the pressure off the nerve. Other conservative care measures include icing the area to reduce inflammation, taking anti-inflammatory medications. Sometimes your doctor may even recommend corticosteroid injections to reduce pain and swelling or physical therapy to introduce stretching exercises or strengthening exercises for the foot. This can also help reduce strain and pain. If none of the above are successful at relieving the pain, surgery is an option. Surgery can remove the thickened tissue and release the pressure on the nerve.
Early treatment typically helps avoid the need for surgery, and many individuals experience relief with conservative measures. If you suspect you have an Morton’s neuroma, it’s best to consult your doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment. Dr. Derek McCammon is a podiatrist at Advantage Orthopedic and Sports Medicine in Gresham and he specializes in treating all types of foot or ankle injuries and pain.