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Morton's Neuroma

Slide

Morton's Neuroma

Morton’s Neuroma

Morton’s Neuromas can cause pain, numbness, or tingling in the toes. It can also feel like your sock is balled up in your shoe or you are stepping on a pebble.

These neuromas are caused by a thickening of the nerve tissue between the metatarsal bones in the forefoot (see image at left). This often happens between the 3rd and 4th digit and can be referred to as an intermetatarsal neuroma.

Causes of Morton’s Neuromas

There are numerous causes of how Morton’s Neuromas form. These include:
Compression 
– Pressure caused by tight shoes or high heels.
Trauma
– A direct injury to the foot, especially between the third and fourth digits. 
Entrapment
– The ligament between metatarsal phalangeal joints at base of toes puts pressure on the nerve.
Biomechanics/foot function
– People with flat feet/pronation/hypermobility of forefoot/hammer toes are more susceptible to Morton’s Neuromas. 
– Repetitive motion of the foot can cause swelling that will compress the nerve.
High impact sports such as running/jogging/racquet sport.

Morton’s Neuroma is typically found between the third and fourth digit of the foot

Treatment of Morton’s Neuromas

Non-surgical Treatments
There are several non-surgical treatments that could alleviate the discomfort caused by a Morton’s Neuroma, including:
  • Shoe modifications-wide top box, stiff soled shoe
  • Ice to reduce inflammation and swelling
  • Anti-inflammatory medications
  • Orthotics
  • Metatarsal pads
  • Activity modifications
  • Cortisone injections
Surgical Treatments
Nerve resection
−Traditional treatment

Decompression surgery
−Emerging treatment
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Finding Care

Dr. Kent DiNucci describes how to find care for a nerve problem and how to prepare for visiting your doctor.

If you think you might have a nerve injury, find care as quickly as possible. The quicker patients can consult with a doctor to treat injuries or nerve problems, the better outcomes they have.

Not sure how to find care, or questions you should ask when visiting a doctor? Listen to Dr. Kent DiNucci explain how to find care and questions you can ask your doctor when visiting for the first time.

If you are suffering from compression symptoms, be sure to consult a nerve specialist

PAGE CONTRIBUTORS

PAGE CONTRIBUTORS

Shari Moore, DPM

Podiatrist
Allina Health
Minnesota

Kent DiNucci, DPM

Podiatrist
Ankle and Foot Clinic
Nebraska

Kevin Powers, DPM

Podiatrist
The Center for Lower Extremity Nerve Surgery
Indiana

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