Morton’s Neuroma
Morton’s neuroma, like all neuromas, can be a very painful condition. Patients describe the pain as feeling as if you are standing on a rock in your shoe. The pain is located between your third and fourth toes. It is caused by pressure or injury to nerves leading to your toes.
Neuromas typically don’t have visible symptoms. However, you may experience burning, numbness or cramping in the space between your toes or the ball of your foot. Fortunately, many neuromas respond well to non-surgical treatments such as cortisone injection shots or specialized orthotics. In some cases, new techniques such as freezing the nerves, or radiofrequency ablation may be necessary to alleviate the pain.
What causes Morton’s neuroma?
The main cause of Morton’s neuroma is wearing shoes that are too tight or have high heels. Tight shoes lead to nerve compression and irritation. As irritation and compression progress, irritated nerves thicken and become increasingly more painful. Those with an unusual gait or foot abnormality are also more likely to develop it.
Other causes of Morton’s neuroma include:
- Flat feet
- High arches
- Hammer toes
- Sports
- Injuries
How is Morton’s neuroma diagnosed?
Because it doesn’t produce visible symptoms Ohio Foot and Ankle Specialists will likely order imaging tests to rule out other conditions. For example, an X-ray may be ordered to rule out a stress fracture or arthritis. An ultrasound or MRI may also be used to look for soft tissue injuries or abnormalities.
If you are diagnosed with Morton’s neuroma, the top podiatrists at Ohio Food and Ankle Specialists will design a treatment plan for you, based on the severity of the condition.
Non-Surgical Treatment for Morton’s Neuroma in Ohio
Many individuals diagnosed with Morton’s neuroma will respond well to non-surgical treatments. These may include:
- Arch supports
- Physical therapy
- Rest
- Icing
- Massaging the ball of the foot
- Stretching exercises
- Strengthening exercises
- Anti-inflammatory medication
- Injections (cortisone, or other anti-inflammatory medications)
Surgical Treatment for Morton’s Neuroma in Ohio
Surgery may be necessary if conservative treatment for it is not successful. There are a variety of sophisticated techniques that Ohio Foot and Ankle Specialists may perform to remove part of the nerve tissue, decompress the nerve, or freeze the nerves. If you’re dealing with any type of chronic foot pain, contact our top podiatrists today.