Morton’s neuroma is a painful but benign condition that affects the balls of the feet. It can also be called intermetatarsal neuroma as it is located in the ball of the foot between the metatarsal bones. Morton’s neuroma occurs when the tissue around a nerve that leads to one of the toes thickens, either from irritation or compression. It most frequently occurs between the third and fourth toes. Some symptoms associated with Morton’s include numbness or tingling in the toes, difficulty walking and intermittent pain. Morton’s Neuroma is also known to occur sometimes without any symptoms. It is often caused by shoes that are considered to be too tight or that have high heels. Another cause can be having a foot or gait abnormality that can put pressure on a nerve in the foot. It is often associated with repetitive sports activities such as running and sports that require tight shoes, such as ballet. Morton’s is treated by the severity of the symptoms. Treatments include physical therapy, stretching exercises, applying ice to sore areas, anesthetic injections to the spot of the pain, and plenty of rest. If you feel that you exhibit any signs of Morton’s Neuroma, it is advised to go see a podiatrist.

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact Dr. Jeff Brooks of Oceanside Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot care needs and answer any of your related questions.  

Morton’s Neuroma

Morton's neuroma is a painful foot condition that commonly affects the areas between the second and third or third and fourth toe, although other areas of the foot are also susceptible. Morton’s neuroma is caused by an inflamed nerve in the foot that is being squeezed and aggravated by surrounding bones.

What Increases the Chances of Having Morton’s Neuroma?

• Ill-fitting high heels or shoes that add pressure to the toe or foot
• Jogging, running or any sport that involves constant impact to the foot
• Flat feet, bunions, and any other foot deformities

Morton’s neuroma is a very treatable condition. Orthotics and shoe inserts can often be used to alleviate the pain on the forefront of the feet. In more severe cases, corticosteroids can also be prescribed. In order to figure out the best treatment for your neuroma, it’s recommended to seek the care of a podiatrist who can diagnose your condition and provide different treatment options.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Oceanside, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.