Morton's Neuroma

A neuroma is a thickening of nerve tissue. A Morton's Neuroma is a common digital nerve in the foot. The most common nerve that is affected is the third common digital nerve. The thickening of this nerve is the most common in the foot because this is where the lateral plantar nerve crosses over and joins with the medial plantar nerve. The thickening of the nerve diameter creates compression of the nerve. The nerve becomes irritated and may eventually lead to nerve damage. Neuroma's are very painful and are accompanied by tingling and burning sensations.

Morton's neuromas are caused by a number of things including poor fitting and tight shoes, and prexisting foot deformities such as bunions, hammertoes, and flat feet. Trauma and repetitive irritation can also contribute to the development of neuromas in the feet.

Treatments of Morton's Neuroma include:

• Padding to support the metatarsal arch, decreasing the pressure applied to the nerve during walking/ running
• Icing to help reduce swelling
• Orthotics to reduce pressure and compression of the nerve
• Anti-inflammatory medications to reduce inflammation and associated pain
• Injection Therapy