Morton’s Neuroma
Morton’s Neuroma refers to a condition where by the nerves of the foot become inflamed and swollen, so that mobility becomes very challenging. A Neuroma usually refers to a nerve tumor. Morton’s Neuroma, however, is not a tumor but an extremely uncomfortable and painful condition of the ball of the foot. Due to the arrangement of meta-tarsal bones and foot wear choices such as high heel shoes, Morton’s Neuroma is seen more frequently in females.
What are the sign and symptoms of Morton’s Neuroma?
There is no visible lump or swelling in foot since Morton’s Neuroma is not technically a tumor. The characteristic signs and symptoms include:
– burning or a sharp stabbing pain when walking, especially in high heels and narrow-tipped shoes.
– feet may be numb and insensitive to pressure;
– Morton’s Neuroma can also be palpated within the ball of the toes as small lumps or bead like swelling;
– cramping sensation between toes.
– Morton’s Neuroma most commonly presents between the third and fourth toe, and less commonly between the second and third toes though it can develop anywhere on the ball of the foot.
How does Morton’s Neuroma develop?
Morton’s Neuroma develops in individuals who wear tight shoes especially with narrow and pointed tips that pinch the toes for long stretches of time. Due to excessive pressure, soft tissue around the nerves undergoes inflammatory changes and swelling that causes thickening of the soft tissue. Morton’s Neuroma is a relatively disabling condition which directly affects mobility and locomotion with its characteristic sensation of standing on a pebble.
Following risk factors are very strongly associated with the pathogenesis of Morton’s Neuroma:
– Injury to the plantar aspect of toes
– Choice of wrong or ill-fitting shoes
– Certain sports or physical activities such as skiing, jogging, climbing rocks and other high impact athletic activities.
– Individuals who have foot deformities, such as bunions, flat-foot syndrome, arch-deformities and hammertoes, are more susceptible to Morton’s Neuroma.
Ace Physio offers Expert Clinicians such as; Registered Physiotherapists and Chiropodists who can assess and effective treat Morton’s Neuroma.
