Morton’s Neuroma

The exact causes of Morton's Neuroma are not fully understood, but several factors can contribute to its development, including:

• Excessive Pressure: Repetitive or continuous pressure on the forefoot, especially in activities involving impact, can cause nerve irritation and thickening.
• Inadequate Footwear: Wearing shoes with narrow toes or high heels can compress forefoot bones and increase pressure on the nerve.
• Foot Biomechanics: Changes in foot mechanics, such as flat feet or high arches, can alter weight distribution and increase risk of neuroma development.
• Repetitive Injuries: Repetitive movements or localized foot trauma can contribute to neuroma development.
• Foot Shape Changes: Changes in metatarsal formula can lead to load alterations and cause excessive stress on nerves.

Symptoms of Morton's Neuroma may include:

• Forefoot Pain: Intense and localized pain, usually between the third and fourth metatarsals, which can worsen with physical activities and improve with rest.
• Burning Sensation: Burning sensation in the affected area, which can radiate to the toes.
• Tingling or Numbness: Tingling or numbness sensation in the toes or forefoot area.
• Discomfort when Touching: Increased sensitivity to touch in the region where the nerve is thickened.
• Stone in Foot Sensation: Feeling like there's a stone or foreign body inside the shoe.

To diagnose Morton's Neuroma, doctors use:

• Physical Examination: Assessment of pain, sensitivity, and changes in foot structure. The doctor may perform specific tests, such as intermetatarsal space compression, to identify the neuroma.
• Imaging Tests: X-rays are used to rule out other conditions and visualize bone changes. Ultrasound or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are used to obtain a more detailed view of the nerve and confirm neuroma presence.

Treatment of Morton's Neuroma aims to relieve pain and improve foot function. Options include:

• Conservative Treatment: Includes rest, ice application, and use of orthopedic insoles or pads to reduce pressure on the nerve and relieve pain.
• Medication: Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can be used to control pain and inflammation associated with the condition.
• Footwear Modification: Use of footwear that offers adequate support, has a wide toe box, and is comfortable can help reduce pressure on the neuroma.
• Physical Therapy: Specific exercises and stretching techniques can help improve foot mechanics and relieve pressure on the nerve.
• Corticosteroid Injections: Corticosteroid injections can be used to reduce inflammation and relieve pain in the neuroma.

Some preventive measures include:

• Use of Appropriate Footwear: Choosing shoes that offer support, cushioning, and sufficient toe space can help avoid neuroma development.
• Biomechanics Correction: Correcting foot mechanics anomalies and making gait pattern adjustments can help reduce risk of injuries and discomfort.
• Muscle Strengthening: Exercises to strengthen foot and leg muscles can improve stability and weight distribution.