What is Morton’s neuroma?
Morton’s neuroma (also known as Morton’s metatarsalgia or interdigital neuroma) is a painful condition that occurs in the foot as a result of irritation of one of the nerves between the toes and thickening of the surrounding tissue. It most commonly affects the nerve between the third and fourth toes, although it can also affect the nerve between the second and third toes.
The pain caused by Morton’s neuroma is said to feel as if the person is standing on a stone in the shoe. However, the pain may be sharp and the toes may also itch or experience numbness.
Prognosis of the disease
In most cases it is not a serious ailment, but it is annoying, as the pain can even make it difficult to ambulate comfortably. In any case, the specialist will be the one to decide the best treatment in each case, with the aim of alleviating it as soon as possible.
Symptoms of Morton’s neuroma
Although there are no external symptoms in Morton’s neuroma, it does manifest with painful or uncomfortable sensations in the foot and toes, which may include:
- Severe stabbing pain in the toe.
- Burning sensation in the toe, sometimes radiating to the toes.
- Sensation of standing on a small stone in the shoe, or a crease in the socks.
- Itching, tingling, burning or numbness in the toes.
What are the causes of Morton’s neuroma?
The causes that cause the nerves to become irritated and thickened are not fully understood, but it is the irritation and thickening that produce the pain associated with Morton’s neuroma. On the other hand, it is believed that the cause may lie in some type of damage to the nerve, either by overstretching or overcompressing it.
Some risk factors, which are not clear to produce Morton’s neuroma or simply exacerbate it, are:
- Wearing high heels, tight or ill-fitting shoes.
- Some sports, especially those involving repeated impact on the foot, such as running or racquet sports.
- Suffering from other foot problems, such as flat feet, high arches, etc.
Can it be prevented?
Morton’s neuroma can be prevented in those cases where there are risk factors derived from the use of poor footwear, or the practice of any sport. It is always recommended to use comfortable shoes, of the correct size, suitable for the patient’s foot.
Treatments for Morton’s neuroma
The treatment of Morton’s neuroma depends on each case. The physician will recommend to the patient the best options for the patient, depending on the severity and how long the patient has been suffering from the condition.
Non-surgical options for Morton’s neuroma, with the goal of reducing pressure on the foot or providing pain relief, include:
- Changing footwear.
- Wearing an orthotic device.
- Weight loss.
- Steroid injections or alcohol solutions, which may relieve pain.
- Analgesics, such as ibuprofen, to reduce inflammation and pain.
Not all patients respond to these treatments, so surgery may sometimes be recommended. This involves removing tissue around the nerve to create more space and reduce pressure, or removing part of the nerve itself.
Which specialist treats it?
Both podiatrists and specialists in Traumatology and Orthopedic Surgery, those who specialize in foot and ankle problems and pathologies, are competent in the treatment of Morton’s Neuroma.