Morton's Neuroma, also known as intermetatarsal Neuroma, is a common foot condition characterized by pain, numbness, and discomfort in the ball of the foot. It occurs when the tissue around a nerve leads to the toes becoming thickened and inflamed. This condition can make walking or standing painful and can significantly impact daily activities. Fortunately, there are various signs and symptoms to watch out for, and here we will discuss ten signs you may have Morton's Neuroma.
In addition, we will also look into effective treatments available to manage this condition and alleviate its symptoms.
What is Morton's Neuroma?
Morton's Neuroma is a painful condition in which the bones located between the toes become inflamed. The ball of the foot becomes thick, swollen, and painful, which is usually the space of the 3rd and 4th toes. It worsens if you wear high-heeled shoes or narrow shoes. Morton's Neuroma makes you feel like there is a stone in your shoe and causes irritation. People with foot deformities like flat feet or high arches have more chance of developing this condition.
Is Morton's Neuroma a Tumor?
Let's first understand the term "neuroma". Neuromas are non-cancerous tumors formed around the nerves throughout the body. Keep in mind that it does not mean that new tissues are growing on your foot nerve. Your existing tissue becomes thickened and inflamed.
So, Morton's Neuroma is not a tumor, does not spread to other parts of the body, and doesn't cause cancer.
10 Signs You May Have Morton's Neuroma
Certain signs ensure that you are suffering from this condition. Here are ten signs you may have Morton's Neuroma –
Persistent Pain
One of the foremost Morton's neuroma symptoms is persistent pain in the ball of your foot, especially when the pain is concentrated in a particular area and impacts your daily activities. If this is happening to you, it is time to go to a foot specialist.
Numbness in the Toes
Your interdigital nerve primarily gets affected in the Morton's Neuroma, which results in numbness in the 3rd and 4th toes. If the pain is extending to second and 3rd toes, it is an indicator that your condition is worsening.
Swelling
Swelling is another symptom of Morton's Neuroma. The ball of your foot has metatarsal bones, which are closely packed. Swelling in this area puts more pressure on the nerves and hence prolonged pain.Â
Pain That Increases with Physical Activity
While putting pressure on your foot by doing activities like running or jumping, if your pain intensifies, you could be having Morton's Neuroma.
Not Able to Wear Certain Kinds of Footwear
Wearing tight shoes or high heels puts excessive pressure on your foot, metatarsal heads and toes which intensifies Morton's neuroma symptoms. If switching to wide toe box or lower heels reduces your pain, then it is a surefire sign that your footwear is causing the problem.
Clicking Sensation While Walking
Do you have a clicking feeling while walking? If yes, it could be yet another symptom. When your nerve thickens up to the extent that you can physically feel it while moving each step and you also feel chronic pain, it could be a sign you may have Morton's Neuroma.
Foot Cramps and Muscle Tightness
Morton's Neuroma primarily affects the ball of your foot. Over time, the pressure putting capacity on your forefoot reduces, and the intrinsic muscles of the foot feel more pressure. Additionally, the calf muscles experience a reduced lengthening cycle during gait. All these factors together contribute to muscle tightness and foot cramps.
Symptoms Worsen Over Time
The symptoms of Morton's Neuroma start mildly and worsen over time if left untreated. Consult an expert podiatrist and get your condition treated. Because if you take it lightly, it may become a source of chronic pain and increased irritability.
Relief Upon Resting or Avoiding Activity
Do you feel extremely relaxed once you take off your footwear, especially when they are tight? If yes, this is your next tell-tale sign. Wear wide-fitting cushioned shoes while walking, or whenever you get a chance, walk barefoot to reduce the pain levels.
Burning in the Forefoot
A burning sensation that you feel in the ball of the foot up through the affected toes is yet another symptom of Morton. The burning feeling is further aggravated by cramping toes.
What Causes Morton's Neuromas?
While there aren't any certain causes telling what causes Morton's neuromas. But generally, it is believed that putting pressure on your toes, the nerves between them, and the ball of your foot are the main causes. Some activities or things can lead to aggravating pain or more risk of developing this condition. These are –
Wearing high heels
Playing those sports that require you to put a lot of pressure on your feet, such as tennis or running
Doing extensive physical activity in which you have to stand or be on your feet the whole day
Also, there are a few health conditions which put you at increased risk of developing Morton's Neuroma –
Bunions
Hammertoes
Flat feet
Foot injuries
What is the Best Treatment for Morton's Neuroma?
Based on the severity of your condition, your professional chiropodist will prescribe certain methods to treat it. Some of them are –
Shoe Pads
Using Over-the-counter shoe pads provides cushioning to the area around your nerve and gets you relief from pressure.
Pain Relievers
NSAIDs that are Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are prescribed to reduce pain, discomfort, and swelling. But don't take it continuously for more than ten days without consulting a podiatrist.
Orthotic Devices
Orthotics are shoe inserts to support your feet and keep your toes intact (in the correct position).
Icing
Apply ice packs to the affected area to reduce inflammation. It is advisable to not apply it directly onto your skin. Wrap it in a thin towel and then do the needful.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Morton's Neuroma is a painful condition that affects the ball of the foot, often causing discomfort, numbness, and swelling. Understanding its causes allows you to seek appropriate care.
That being said, consult a professional chiropodist in Brampton to get rid of your foot pain. We, at RMT Movement, have a team of expert podiatrists that diagnose and treat your lower limb complaints. If you want to alleviate Morton's neuroma symptoms and restore comfort, it's time to get in touch with our foot specialist in Brampton.
Contact us at 647-201-4814 for more information.
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FAQs
How Should I Cure My Morton's Neuroma?
Treatment options for Morton's Neuroma include wearing proper footwear with a wide toe box, using orthotic inserts for support, and applying ice packs to reduce inflammation. Your chiropodist will prescribe you the best method to treat it.
Can I Prevent a Morton's Neuroma?
You can reduce your risk of developing Morton's Neuroma by wearing comfortable, properly fitting shoes with adequate toe room, avoiding high heels and narrow shoes, and maintaining a healthy weight to reduce pressure on your feet.
Which Tests Do Providers Use to Diagnose Morton's Neuromas?
Healthcare providers diagnose Morton's Neuroma through a physical examination and may order imaging tests such as X-rays, MRI, or ultrasound to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other conditions.
What Happens If a Morton's Neuroma Is Left Untreated?
If left untreated, Morton's Neuroma can lead to chronic pain, numbness, and difficulty walking. It may also result in changes in foot structure and gait mechanics, leading to further complications.
What Does Morton's Neuroma Pain Feel Like?
Morton's neuroma pain often feels like a sharp or burning sensation in the ball of the foot between the third and fourth toes. Some describe it as having a pebble or stone in their shoe.
How Common Are Morton's Neuromas?
Morton's neuromas are relatively common, especially among women. They often occur in individuals who frequently wear high heels or tight shoes, participate in high-impact activities, or have certain foot deformities.
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