Understanding a Morton's Neuroma

This condition develops in the plantar digital nerves between the bones of your foot which may sound bizarre to those who don’t suffer with the condition but rings true for those suffering.

As the nerves experience day to day movement, compression from the foots tissue, they react through inflammation, thickening which results in a Mortons Neuroma. The lining of the nerves can become thickened and are usually found at the ball of your foot. .

How does a Mortons Neuroma form?

How one develops can be affected by several reasons:

Age: The typical age range that is usually affected is 40+ due to wear and tear of day to day activities which impact the ball of the foot which will affect the compression felt over time.

What we wear: High heels or ill-fitting shoes play a huge part in developing a Mortons Neuroma

Career: Roles that involve standing for long periods of time will increase the risk of developing a Mortons Neuroma

Forefoot concerns: Forefoot Bursitis will put pressure on the nerve which can lead to the condition Foot conditions: There are certain conditions that increase the risk of A Mortons Neuroma such as Tailors bunion or Hallux abducto-valgus

Increased Strain: For active individuals, consistent pressure on the feet and over use can also contribute

How we walk: Alongside exercise, how we walk, run or stand can increase the risk of developing a Mortons Neuroma

What are the symptoms?

Typically the Morton’s neuroma can develop between the 3rd and 4th toes but can also affect between other joints in the foot. A classic indicator there may be a Morton’s neuroma is the pain located under the ball of the foot.

Other symptoms 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.

How do we diagnose a Morton's Neuroma?

Your podiatrist will assess how you experience a squeeze on the ball of your foot. If the pain increases during this particular test, then this will be looked into with further assessment. As there are many symptoms similar to other foot conditions, our Amersham podiatry team will continue with further Neuroma tests.

Treatment Options:

We recommend being seen as soon as possible by our team to ensure we can help you. A tailored treatment plan will be created for you following an assessment. Typically this involves supporting your feet as best possible with recommended footwear, strengthening exercises with rehabilitation, strapping the foot. In summary we encourage rest, ice, compression and elevation (RICE).

Following your assessment, if the pain is persistent then other options could be considered such as corticosteroid injections, surgical removal or simply anti -inflammatory medications.

Preventing a Morton's neuroma

Your podiatrist will recommend supportive shoes with space and padding, particularly for those who are active. Avoiding shoes with high heels is key when looking to prevent the condition.

What if you don’t receive treatment?

By not seeking professional advice and treatment, this can lead to further issues which can result in extreme treatment such as surgery. Ignoring a Morton’s Neuroma can also lead to further foot conditions such as bursitis. Footwear is key to insure there is not further damage or repeats of the condition.

At Walk This Way Poditry 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 Amersham podiatrists today.

Your journey to happier, healthier feet begins here.

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