What is it?
A Morton’s neuroma is a pinched nerve in the ball of the foot. It is most commonly found between the 3rd & 4th toes.
Causes
Morton’s neuroma is most often caused by footwear that crowds or puts pressure on the toes. This can happen while playing sports or other situations in which there is increased pressure across the forefoot.
Symptoms
Neuromas may cause various forms of discomfort including: burning, tingling, numbness, and/or sharp stabbing pain. The classic description by the patient is, “it makes me want to sit down, take off my shoes and rub my feet.”
Treatment Options
A systematic treatment plan to treat Morton’s neuroma starts with changing the type of shoe worn and the addition of a pad to relieve pressure on the toes. This can be followed up with a cortisone injection if pain persists. Surgical excision of a neuroma is 95% successful and can be performed as an outpatient procedure.