Morton\u2019s neuroma is a common condition that causes pain in the ball of your foot\u2014most often in the area between the third and fourth toes. The feeling is often compared to that of having a small rock\u2014or marble\u2014stuck in your shoe. A neuroma is a small benign tumor of a nerve\u2014although Morton\u2019s neuroma is not actually a tumor. Instead, it is a thickening of the tissue that surrounds the nerves that lead to the toes.<\/p>\n
Ill-fitting shoes\u2014like those that squeeze toes together or distribute weight unevenly\u2014are thought to be the main cause Morton\u2019s neuroma. Those suffering with this condition often fiend relief by changing shoes, stopping their walk, or by rubbing the affected area.<\/p>\n
While poor shoe choice is usually the main cause of Morton\u2019s neuroma, there are a number of other factors that contribute to its development. Some of these include:<\/p>\n
In most cases, there are no outward symptoms related to this Morton\u2019s neuroma. Instead, most people experience a burning pain in the ball of their foot, tingling or numbness in the toes after long period of stress, or the feeling of walking on a pebble in your shoe. When pain persists for more than a few days and you suspect it might be Morton\u2019s neuroma, see your podiatrist to discuss your treatment options.<\/p>\n
To diagnose Morton\u2019s neuroma, your podiatrist will perform a physical exam, where he or she will feel around for a mass or tender spot. Some imaging tests\u2014like x-rays or an ultrasound\u2014may be ordered to rule out any other causes of your foot pain.<\/p>\n
In most cases, Morton\u2019s neuroma can be treated with non-surgical and non-invasive methods. Some of these treatments include:<\/p>\n
If conservative approaches don\u2019t relieve symptoms, your podiatrist may recommend surgical treatment. These procedures may include a procedure where pressure is relieved from the nerve by cutting the nearby structures, known as decompression surgery. Your podiatrist may also recommend removing the affected nerve altogether. The treatment your doctor chooses depends on the severity of your symptoms.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"featured_media":0,"template":"","yoast_head":"\n