Morton’s Neuroma is an orthopedic condition that causes a sharp and burning pain in the ball of the foot, usually between the third and fourth toe. The person suffering from the problem may feel as if he is standing on a pleated sock or grit in his shoe and the toe may itch, and feel numb.
Causes
Although the exact cause of Morton’s Neuroma is not known there are a number of reasons that are believed to aggravate it.
- Footwear: Wearing very tight shoes can worsen the pain caused due to Morton’s Neuroma. Shoes with high heels, pointed shoes, or tight toe shoes can compress the toes and cause pain.
- Foot Conditions: There are many foot conditions that can lead to this condition because they rub the bones against the foot nerve. Some of these are high arched foot, flat feet, hammertoe, and bunion.
- Sports Activities: Sports that involve running can also increase the foot pain as they put extra burden on the foot nerve.
Symptoms
- Sudden pain while walking. The pain may either be sharp or dull but it causes the patient to stop and remove the shoe.
- Numbness
- Burning
- A feeling that there is something inside the ball of the foot
- Paresthesia – a feeling of pricking or tingling with no visible continuing physical effect which is also known as pins and needles.
Treatment
Initially, orthopedic doctors usually prescribe self-help measures to treat Morton’s Neuroma. Some of these are:
- Providing proper rest to foot and massaging the affected toes.
- Soothing the affected area with an ice pack.
- Changing footwear and wearing wide toed and flat ones.
- Using arch supports – padding that supports the arch of the foot and relaxes the strain on the toes.
- Avoiding indulging in sports and other rigorous activities that puts pressure on the affected area.
- Weight management for obese patients symptoms are persistent and severe, the doctor may employ a surgical treatment option.
For consultation and treatment of Morton’s Neuroma, visit the foot and ankle doctor at OrthoTexas. To request an appointment, call at (214) 618-5502.
