Morton's Neuroma

Morton's neuroma, also known as Morton's metatarsalgia or interdigital neuroma, is a painful foot condition affecting the nerve passing under the ligament that connect the metatarsals. This foot condition often affects the third and fourth toes, may sometimes develop in the second and third toes. Also, it either affects one foot or both feet. A constant irritation or an excessive pressure on those areas of the foot or both feet develops a thickening of the tissues that surround the nerves leading to the toes. As a result, one may experience a sharp, burning pain at the ball of the foot. The sensation is feeling like as if you are walking on a pebble, a common description of this foot condition. Although it can occur at any age, the condition is more notable in runners and in middle-aged women who loves to wear high-heeled shoes. Besides, the incidence is higher in women than in men.

Causes

Although the exact cause remained unclear, many experts believed that Morton's neuroma is usually associated with irritation or pressure of the nerves between the toes. Aside from wearing high-heeled shoes and participating in high-impact sports like running, anyone with foot deformities such hammertoes and flat feet will also have this foot condition.






Symptoms

A sharp, burning pain felt at the ball of the foot often worsen with activity and wearing tight shoes.
Unpleasant tingling sensation at the toe.
Pain increases over time.

Diagnosis

Examination may show a palpable mass at the toes, which is tender when pressed.
X-ray may help to rule out bone fracture.
A test on the range of motion to find any arthritic or an inflammatory condition of the joints.
Ultrasound and Magnetic Resonance Imaging are both good in visualizing the soft tissues, though quite expensive.

Treatment

The treatment is towards the symptoms. A conservative treatment is the first approach before going into an invasive intervention.

Wearing a orthotic device, those with foot deformities, will help relieve pressure on the toes.
Shoe change will help reduce pressure on the nerves, particularly the athletes.
Avoid high-heeled and tight shoes as well.
Foot massage provides pain relief.
Placing an ice pack at the sole provides pain relief.
Weight reduction  for obese persons to reduce strain on the feet.
Over the counter pain relievers and injections of steroids may help ease the pain and inflammation.
Surgical removal of the thickened tissues deemed necessary if all conservative treatments haven't worked. Although the surgery is successful in most cases, one may still experience the permanent sensation of numbness but not painful.