Morton's Neuroma | Causes | Prevention | Treatment
What is Morton's Neuroma?
Morton's neuroma—a term that might sound unfamiliar but is all too familiar for those who experience it. This condition develops in the plantar digital nerves nestled between the long bones of your foot. When these nerves endure constant compression and friction trauma from the surrounding tissue, they respond with chronic thickening and swelling, resulting in a Morton's neuroma—a painful thickened "bulbus" in the nerve lining, typically felt in the ball of your foot.
Causes & Risk Factors for Morton's neuroma?
Various factors can heighten the risk of developing Morton's neuroma, including:
- Aging: Individuals aged 40 and above are more susceptible due to the gradual deterioration of shock-absorbing fat pads in the foot's ball, leading to compression over time.
- Footwear: Women and individuals who frequently wear high heels or tight-fitting shoes are at increased risk.
- Occupation: Jobs that involve prolonged periods of standing can contribute to the development of the condition.
- Forefoot issues: Conditions like forefoot bursitis can aggravate and compress the nerve.
- Existing foot conditions: Having conditions such as Hallux abducto-valgus (bunions of the big toe joint) or Tailor's bunion (bunion of the little toe joint) can elevate the risk.
- Excessive strain: Overloading and overuse during exercise or daily activities can also play a role.
- Gait patterns: Certain walking and running patterns may contribute to the development of Morton's neuroma.
Symptoms for Morton's neuroma?
Morton's neuroma typically manifests between the third and fourth toes but can also occur in other toe joint spaces. If you notice pain in the ball of your foot, it could indicate Morton's neuroma.
Additional symptoms linked to this condition may include:
- Sharp shooting pain in the forefoot
- Tingling or pins and needles sensation in the ball and toes of your foot
- Clicking sensation in the ball of the foot
- Sensation of walking on a pebble
- Difficulty bearing weight due to pain
- Localised tenderness
- Burning pain in the foot, potentially radiating toward the toes
- Joint stiffness in affected areas
- Pain during activity and daily tasks
- Limited joint mobility and range of motion
- Discomfort when walking barefoot or wearing specific shoes, particularly tight-fitting or high heels
Diagnosis for Morton's neuroma?
To assess whether Morton's neuroma might be the culprit behind your discomfort, a simple self-test involves squeezing the ball of your foot. If this maneuver reproduces or exacerbates your pain, it warrants further evaluation by a podiatrist. Since the symptoms mimic other forefoot conditions, professional diagnosis is crucial. Our Berkhmasted podiatrists conduct a physical assessment, employing specialised neuroma assessments.
Treatment Options:
Addressing your pain swiftly is paramount. Following a thorough assessment, we tailor a personalised treatment plan for you. This typically includes the RICE protocol (rest, ice, compression, elevation), supportive footwear, strengthening and stretching exercises, foot orthotics to offload the neuroma, foot strapping, shockwave therapy, and dry needling. If pain persists, options like anti-inflammatory medications, corticosteroid injections, or surgical removal may be considered.
Things to consider when preventing a Morton's Neuroma?
Preventing Morton's neuroma, or its recurrence, involves mindful footwear choices, opting for well-fitted shoes with ample toe room and cushioning, especially during exercise. Minimising high heel usage and prioritising foot health are crucial steps in mitigating the risk.
Ignoring the Neuroma: Risks and Consequences
Neglecting Morton's neuroma can prolong healing, potentially leading to complications like forefoot bursitis, altered gait patterns casuing pain elsewhere, or the need for invasive interventions like surgery. Long-term preventive measures, including appropriate footwear selection, are recommended to minimise recurrence.
At Callen Olive Podiatry Clinic, we're dedicated to addressing your foot concerns with precision and care. Don't let Morton's Neuroma slow you down—schedule a consultation with our expert Berkhamsted podiatrists today. Your journey to happier, healthier feet begins here.
