Coastal Podiatry Foot & Ankle Clinic
Morton's Neuroma
Struggling with foot pain that feels like you’re endlessly stepping on a pebble? It might be Morton’s Neuroma – a common yet often misunderstood condition affecting the ball of the foot, especially between the third and fourth toes. Imagine walking on clouds instead of sharp stones. With the right knowledge and care, it’s possible!
Coastal Podiatry
Understanding Morton's Neuroma
Morton’s Neuroma occurs when tissue around the nerves leading to your toes thickens, causing sharp, burning pain, or even numbness in the ball of your foot. This discomfort can make it feel as though you’re constantly standing on an unseen pebble. High-heeled and tight-fitting shoes are major culprits, but there’s hope with lifestyle adjustments and targeted treatments.
Morton's Neuroma
Symptoms to Watch For:
Symptoms of Morton’s neuroma typically manifest between the third and fourth toes, although they can occasionally occur elsewhere in the toe joint spaces. If you’re experiencing discomfort in the ball of your foot, Morton’s neuroma might be the culprit.
Additional signs and symptoms associated with this condition may include:
- Sharp, shooting pain in the front part of the foot.
- Tingling or pins-and-needles sensation in the ball and toes.
- Sensation of clicking in the ball of the foot.
- Feeling as though there's a pebble underfoot while walking.
- Difficulty bearing weight due to pain.
- Localised tenderness in the affected area.
- Burning pain in the foot that may extend to the toes.
- Stiffness in the joints affected by the neuroma.
- Pain during daily activities and movement.
- Restricted range of motion and mobility in the affected joints.
- Discomfort when walking barefoot or wearing specific types of shoes, particularly tight-fitting or high-heeled footwear.
Treatment Journey at Coastal Podiatry Foot & Ankle Clinic
Don’t let foot pain become your new normal. If you’re experiencing persistent burning pain in the ball of your foot, changing shoes and adjusting activities isn’t bringing relief, it’s time to consult a professional.
Frequently Asked Questions
Morton’s Neuroma is the thickening of tissue around the nerves to your toes, leading to pain in the ball of your foot. It’s like the foot’s version of a traffic jam, where nerves get compressed, causing discomfort.
High heels and tight shoes are the main villains, pushing toes into cramped spaces and putting pressure on the ball of your foot. Activities that stress the foot and certain foot shapes can also trigger it.
Yes! Switching to shoes with a wider toe box and lower heels, applying the RICE protocol (rest, ice, compression, elevation), and gentle foot exercises can help. But remember, a tailored treatment plan from your podiatrist is unbeatable.
Not at all! Neural Prolotherapy or MLS Laser Therapy are great choices and showcase great outcomes. Surgery is considered when other methods don’t bring relief.
Start with your shoes: avoid high heels and opt for ones with ample toe room. Also, moderate your high-impact activities and consider supportive insoles to reduce pressure on the balls of your feet.
Journey Towards a Mobile Lifestyle
Ignoring Morton’s Neuroma can lead to chronic issues or even surgery. Early intervention and proper footwear are your best defence. Ready to step back into comfort? Let’s walk this journey together towards a mobile lifestyle. Remember, your feet carry you through life’s adventures; treat them well!
Book an Appointment
If you’re experiencing pain or discomfort in your feet, ankles, knees, back or lower limb, book a podiatry appointment today. Our experienced team will provide quality podiatry care using the latest assessments, technology, and techniques.
