Mortons Neuroma

What is Mortons Neuroma?

Mortons Neuroma is a non-cancerous growth in nerve tissue which occurs in a digital nerve of the foot; they tend to be most frequently between the third and fourth metatarsal bones (the bones that the toes attach to if you look down at the foot) although they have been known to develop in the heel.
It is this thickening of the tissue around the nerve that causes the pain namely when the foot comes in contact with the ground.

Symptoms of Mortons Neuroma:

Pain swelling, and/or inflammation of a nerve usually between the 3rd and 4th toes with associated pain on the bottom of the foot. Sharp, burning pain (worsened as the nerve deteriorates), lack of feeling and tingling / cramping in the forefoot and even numbness and pain in the leg in some cases. It is worsened by walking or whilst bearing weight.

Causes of Mortons Neuroma:

The cause of Mortins Neuroma is unknown. It can be due to a number of reasons; an inherited abnormal foot action can be to blame as can flat feet, high heels and tight-fitting (constricting) shoes.
More women develop Mortons Neuroma than men simply because of wearing “silly shoes”.

Relief and Prevention of Mortons Neuroma:

Sensible footwear which offers additional width and support to the arch and toes is always a good start. Padding and taping of the toes (and the use of orthotics) can reduce the pain whilst mobile; resting the foot will always help.
In more prolonged cases, anti inflammatory medicines and herbal remedies can reduce the pain. Surgery should always be the final resort. If the problem persists always seek advice from a foot specialist.