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Morton’s Neuroma

What is a Neuroma?

A neuroma is a common condition that causes pain in the ball of your foot—most often in the area between the third and fourth toes. The feeling is often compared to that of having a small rock—or marble—stuck in your shoe. A neuroma is a thickening of a nerve. The soft tissue around the neuroma can also become inflamed and cause symptoms.

Causes & Symptoms of Neuroma’s

Ill-fitting shoes that squeeze toes together or distribute weight unevenly are thought to be the main cause Morton’s neuroma. Those suffering with this condition often find relief by changing shoes or by rubbing the affected area.

While poor shoe choice is usually the main cause of Morton’s neuroma, there are a number of other factors that contribute to its development. Some of these include:

  • Trauma
  • Biomechanical deformities
  • Repeated stress
  • Overuse

In most cases, there are no outward symptoms related to a neuroma. Instead, most people experience a burning pain in the ball of their foot, tingling or numbness in the toes after activity, 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 a neuroma, see your podiatrist to discuss your treatment options.

Diagnosis & Treatment of a Neuroma

To diagnose a neuroma, your podiatrist will perform a physical exam to feel for a mass or tender spot. Some imaging tests may be ordered to rule out any other causes of your foot pain.

In most cases, neuromas can be treated with non-surgical and non-invasive methods. Some of these treatments include:

  • Changes in footwear
  • Custom orthotics
  • Cortisone injections
  • Ice/rest
  • Anti-inflammatory medications

If conservative approaches don’t relieve symptoms, your podiatrist may recommend surgical treatment. These procedures may include a procedure that relieves pressure 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.

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4:00pm
Tuesday
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4:00pm
Wednesday
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4:00pm
Thursday
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4:00pm
Friday
8:00am
1:00pm

Office Location

Looking Glass Foot and Ankle Center, PC