Morton’s Neuroma: Comprehensive Guide to Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

Are you struggling with a burning sensation between your toes, or do you feel like there’s a pebble in your shoe that just won’t go away? You might be dealing with Morton’s Neuroma, a foot condition that doesn’t just stem from your choice of footwear but involves a complex interplay of anatomical and lifestyle factors. At Walk Without Pain, our Brisbane podiatry clinics are dedicated to not just treating but thoroughly understanding Morton’s Neuroma.

What Exactly is Morton’s Neuroma?

What is Morton’s Neuroma?  Morton’s Neuroma is a common and painful condition of the ball of the foot.  It comes about when the small nerve running between the long bones of the forefoot (metatarsals) is squeezed, just before its entry into two of the toes.  This is usually between the third and fourth metatarsals and toes.  This site is pictured in the adjacent diagram. Less commonly, it occurs between the second and third toes and rarely between the fourth and fifth toes.  It is not usually found in the first interspace, meaning the space between the 1st and 2nd metatarsals.   In the diagram, you can see that the nerve divides into two parts between the metatarsal heads, at the point where the space between the bones is narrower. If the nerve is repeatedly damaged by being compressed between the bones, the nerve will thicken, forming a mass on the nerve at this point. The larger the nerve becomes, the greater the likelihood of it being trapped between the bones and so the problem can get progressively worse.

Causes of Morton’s Neuroma

• Footwear: Tight shoes compress the toes and nerves.
• Biomechanics: High arches or flat feet can alter foot pressure.
• Lifestyle: High-impact sports can exacerbate the condition.

Symptoms of Morton’s Neuroma

• Pain: Sharp, searing pain akin to an electric shock.
• Numbness: A telltale sign that it’s more than just tight shoes.
• Clicking: Known as Mulder’s click, this sound can occur when the affected nerve snaps due to pressure.

Diagnosis of Morton’s Neuroma

A detailed clinical examination including palpation and possibly imaging tests like ultrasound or MRI helps confirm the diagnosis, ensuring that your treatment plan is tailored to your specific condition.

Treatment Options for Morton’s Neuroma

• Shoe Modifications: Sometimes, simply switching to shoes with a wider toe box can alleviate the symptoms.
• Custom Orthotics: Tailored to your foot’s contour, these devices can redistribute pressure away from the neuroma.
• Advanced Therapies:
• Steroid Injections: Reduce inflammation and pain.
• Radiofrequency Ablation: A non-surgical approach that uses heat to reduce nerve irritation.
• Surgery: A last resort, but sometimes necessary to remove the neuroma.

Prevention: Keeping Morton’s Neuroma at Bay

• Footwear Choices: Opt for comfort and fit over style.
• Regular Foot Care: Exercises that stretch and strengthen foot muscles can be incredibly beneficial.

Choosing the Right Shoes for Morton’s Neuroma

Selecting appropriate footwear is crucial for managing and potentially alleviating the pain associated with Morton’s Neuroma. Here’s what to look for:

• Wide Toe Box: Shoes with a spacious toe box allow the toes to spread out, reducing pressure on the neuroma.
• Low Heels: High heels can increase pressure on the front of the foot. Opt for shoes with a heel height of less than two inches.
• Arch Support: Adequate arch support can help distribute pressure more evenly across your foot.
• Soft Soles: Shoes with cushioned soles can absorb impact and reduce pressure when walking.
• Adjustable Closure: Shoes with laces or straps that can be adjusted can help accommodate changes in foot size throughout the day due to swelling.

FAQ Section About Morton’s Neuroma

Conclusion

Suffering from Morton’s Neuroma doesn’t mean putting up with pain. At Walk Without Pain, our goal is to provide relief and recovery through personalized care plans. Don’t let foot pain hold you back—reach out today and step into a pain-free life.

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Walk Without Pain Can Treat Your Morton’s Neuroma

At Walk Without Pain, we believe that no matter how many specialists you have seen and not been satisfied with, all hope is not lost until our podiatrists have assessed your foot issue. Half a million feet have been treated at our clinics and we have an outstanding reputation in the community.

So, for those that believe treatment for Morton’s neuroma may be the solution to that burning or searing pain that you have felt in your foot, reach out and book an appointment with our team here at Walk Without Pain podiatry in Brisbane today. We promise nothing short of exceptional service and follow up support that will ensure your progress is sustained into the future.