NEUROMA

Morton’s Neuroma or Neuroma may be described as a pinched nerve in the foot. The diagnosis for this condition is often missed or incorrectly made. It is a thickening of the nerve that occurs most often between third and fourth toes.

The pain may be in the toes or at the ball of the foot. Most patients describe a sharp shooting pain like an electric shock, or a burning of the foot with numbness and tingling in the toes. Often times the patient will temporarily relieve the pain by removing the shoe and rubbing the foot.

Causes of Neuroma include anything that will compress or irritate the nerve. One of the most common causes is wearing shoes that are too tight or too narrow in the toe box. High heels are notorious for causing Morton’s Neuroma.

People with certain foot deformities such as bunions, hammer toes, flat feet, and more flexible feet are at higher risk for developing a neuroma. Other potential causes are activities that involve repetitive irritation to the ball of the foot, such as running or racquet sports. Any injury or other type of trauma to the area may also lead to the development of a Neuroma.

Diagnosis is often made by the Podiatrist in the office with a thorough history and physical examination. Manipulation of the
foot and pressure in that particular area will aid the doctor in his diagnosis. MRI is currently our most specific diagnostic tool available.

Treatment of neuroma is most effective when diagnosed and treated early in the onset of the condition. Indeed 85% of these conditions respond to conservative treatment when treatment begins early.

Four mild to moderate cases of Neuroma, treatment options
include padding, icing, arch supports, changing shoes, oral medication and when needed, injection therapy. Surgery is not often required and is reserved for severe cases that do not
respond to conservative treatment.