How to Cure Morton's Neuroma

Foot pain can be persistent and debilitating, impacting even the most simple daily activities and overall well-being. If you have done some research, you may have learned about Morton's neuroma and might even suspect this is what you or a loved one are dealing with.

But how can you cure this condition? Morton's Neuroma is a complex, chronic foot problem that can be caused by a variety of factors and can come with an equal variety of uncomfortable symptoms. You may have heard the term, but what is Morton's Neuroma?

What exactly is Morton’s Neuroma?

Morton's Neuroma is a nerve disorder that typically occurs between the third and fourth toes. The intermetatarsal plantar nerve, positioned in the ball of the foot, is susceptible to compression and irritation. Morton's Neuroma happens when this nerve becomes trapped, leading to the formation and thickening of a fibrous tissue mass around it. As this tissue thickens, it exerts pressure on the nerve, creating a palpable lump or swelling between the affected toes.

Individuals with this condition often experience a burning or tingling sensation in the ball of the foot, and some describe the feeling of walking on a pebble or having a folded sock under the midfoot. Numbness in the affected toes is another common symptom, contributing to an overall feeling of discomfort. Eventually, sharp, shooting pain may radiate from the ball of the foot into the toes or extend toward the arch. This pain can be exacerbated by walking or wearing tight shoes.

What are the causes of Morton’s Neuroma?

Understanding the causes of Morton's Neuroma is important for both prevention and effective treatment. Three main causes of this condition include foot deformities, certain types of athletic activity, and high-heeled shoes.

Structural anomalies such as bunions and hammertoes can disrupt the natural alignment of the foot, impacting weight distribution and increasing the risk of nerve compression, potentially leading to the formation of Morton's Neuroma over time. Engaging in high-impact sports or activities that involve repetitive stress on the feet can contribute to the onset of Morton's Neuroma. Running, jogging, or activities with sudden stops and starts can lead to irritation and compression of the nerve, especially if proper footwear is not utilized.

Perhaps one of the most well-known contributors to Morton's Neuroma is the prolonged use of high-heeled shoes. High heels force the foot into an unnatural position, redistributing weight unevenly and placing heightened pressure on the forefoot. This sustained pressure can lead to the compression of the intermetatarsal plantar nerve.

How do I know if I have Morton’s Neuroma?

Experiencing persistent foot pain can be debilitating, and for many, it raises the question: could it be Morton's Neuroma? Knowing the signs and symptoms and seeking the expertise of a podiatrist is key to getting relief.

A hallmark symptom of Morton's Neuroma is a burning or tingling sensation in the ball of the foot, and many Morton's Neuroma patients describe that peculiar sensation of walking on a lump or pebble. These often accompany or precede other symptoms, providing an early indicator of nerve irritation.

A secondary sensation of numbness, especially in the toes, may be intermittent or persistent, affecting the overall comfort of the foot. One of the most distinct symptoms is sharp, shooting pain that radiates from the ball of the foot into the toes or extends toward the arch.

From symptom recognition to accurate diagnosis, podiatric care ensures a tailored approach to alleviate discomfort and enhance overall foot health.

How is Morton's Neuroma cured?

Sharp foot pain and discomfort often prompt a critical question: is there a cure? Fortunately, there is a spectrum of conservative as well minimally invasive treatments to manage symptoms and improve overall foot health.

First-line treatments include footwear modification, orthotic inserts, physical therapy, shockwave therapy, and corticosteroid injections. While these can manage symptoms and bring some relief, they may not provide a long-term solution.

Cryosurgery, also known as cryoablation, is a highly effective, low risk, minimally invasive office-based procedure that requires a tiny incision and only takes 15 minutes to perform. This minimally invasive procedure involves freezing the affected nerve, effectively disrupting its function and providing relief from pain. This prevents future irritation and inflammation allowing you to return to your pre-operative activities and shoe gear free of pain with minimal to no downtime.

Take Strides Towards Relief

Patient education is key for so many health challenges that we face. But once you're ready to seek professional care for your possible Morton's neuroma, it's so important to consult with experts like those at Morton's Neuroma Center, who can precisely diagnose and treat this condition and get you back on your feet.