Morton’s neuroma is a condition in which the tissue around the nerves between the third and fourth toes thickens, applying pressure on the nerve.
Middle-aged women who wear high heels and narrow shoes daily or athletes who participate in high-impact sports are more likely to develop this condition. Foot deformities such as bunions, hammertoes, and flatfeet may also increase the risk of Morton’s neuroma.
Fortunately, there are many surgical and non-surgical ways to bring relief to the discomfort caused by Morton’s neuroma. Below, we asked Dr. Kenneth Meisler, our expert, to share five of the most common signs of Moron’s neuroma.
1. Pain in your foot
Do you often feel like you’re walking on a thorn? Pain is a tell-tale sign of Morton’s neuroma, which indicates a pinched nerve.
The pain should be located between your toes and worsen when you increase your activity level.
2. Pins and needles
Another common sign of nerve compression is the sensation of pins and needles in the foot. You may also experience loss of sensation for brief periods.
3. Burning sensations
Alongside pain, you may feel a burning sensation that radiates to the rest of your foot. A burning sensation may also be an indication of other conditions, such as poorly controlled diabetes.
4. Swelling in your foot
When a nerve is irritated or compressed, inflammation occurs. With inflammation comes the accumulation of fluid and swelling in the spaces between the toes.
5. Constant discomfort
A unique trait of Morton’s neuroma is the feeling of constantly walking on a pebble, regardless of what shoes you’re wearing.
Managing your symptoms
The symptoms above aren’t just an indication of Morton’s neuroma. Other conditions such as diabetes can lead to nerve damage in the feet, which can cause burning pain, numbness, and tingling. Dr. Meisler may order an imaging test to get a better idea of what’s causing your discomfort.
Morton’s neuroma isn’t a serious condition, but if it’s left untreated, it can lead to symptoms that become chronic and don’t improve with rest. Severe cases may lead to permanent nerve damage in the foot.
Treatment options depend on the severity of your symptoms, and these may include wearing loose and comfortable footwear, wearing insoles, participating in physical therapy, and taking anti-inflammatories.
If the nerve compression is severe, Dr. Meisler may recommend nerve decompression surgery, in which the tense tendons surrounding the compressed nerves are released.
Morton’s neuroma can cause a lot of discomfort, and it’s a progressive disease that doesn’t get better with time unless the issues are addressed. If you’re experiencing the symptoms above, contact us to schedule an appointment for quick relief.