Conquering Morton’s Neuroma: Conservative and Surgical Treatment

Do you ever feel like you are walking on a bruise? Maybe you are experiencing shooting pain or numbness between your toes, particularly when you have your shoes/sandals on? These symptoms are common in a condition known as Morton’s Neuroma. While the exact cause is unknown, this condition is typically exacerbated by wearing shoes that don’t fit you properly. This condition is most commonly seen in between the third and fourth toes, but can occur in between any of the toe interspaces in the foot. Most importantly, you need to make sure that your shoes have enough room in the toe box. Therefore, a wide shoe with good support is most appropriate.

Your podiatric physician will first assess your condition with a physical exam. X-rays will be taken to rule out more serious bone problems and if needed, MRI or diagnostic ultrasound will be used to assess the nerves and surrounding soft tissues. Morton’s neuroma will appear as a thickening or enlargement of the nerve tissue which is complicated by the repetitive movements of walking or squeezing your feet into shoes that are too small. Symptoms will vary among patients however it is not uncommon to experience burning and shooting pain in the toe area.

The first goal is to get you some immediate pain relief and attempt to stop it from reoccurring. This is accomplished through ‘conservative treatment’. There are a number of options regarding conservative care that are available including; Orthotics, change of shoes and Physical Therapy that Dr. Garvin can do before moving on to more invasive treatments, such as injections or surgery. Orthoses treatment consists of fitting your shoes with a custom made moldable device that will alleviate the areas of highest pressure, which in turn alleviates the symptoms caused by the painful neuroma.  If one of these conservative treatments does not eliminate the problem, your podiatric physician will discuss the more invasive surgical treatment with you. This type of treatment is usually considered a ‘last resort’ as there is the chance of complications with any surgical treatment. If the problem progresses to this stage, the damaged nerve will be removed while you are under sedation and effectively eliminate the pain.

Just remember, a trip to your specialist does not have to involve surgery. Our goal here at Foot and Ankle Specialist of the Treasure Coast is to keep you healthy and walking comfortably. There are often many conservative options for treatment with surgery typically the last one implemented. So stay healthy and keep your feet pain free!