Morton's Neuroma

A Morton’s neuroma is a nerve condition that causes persistent pain in the ball of the foot. At Mid-South Foot & Ankle Specialists in Atoka, Cordova, and East Memphis, Tennessee, the highly skilled physicians specialize in diagnosing and treating Morton’s neuroma. Early diagnosis and treatment may prevent permanent nerve damage. To find out if your foot pain is from Morton's neuroma, call the office nearest you or schedule an appointment online today.

What is Morton’s neuroma?

Morton’s neuroma is a thickening of the nerve that runs between the third and fourth toe on the ball of your foot. 

The thickening develops from compression or irritation of the nerve. Over time, the ongoing compression and enlargement of the nerve in the foot may lead to permanent damage.

Wearing shoes with a small toe box or high heel is the most common cause of the neuroma. You may also develop a Morton’s neuroma if you engage in repetitive activities that involve the ball of your foot, like running. 

Though anyone can get a Morton’s neuroma, people with bunions, hammertoe, or flatfeet are at greater risk.

What are the symptoms of Morton’s neuroma?

Pain or discomfort in the ball of the foot is the most common symptom of Morton’s neuroma. Other symptoms include:

• Persistent burning that radiates into the toes
• Feeling like you have a pebble in your shoe
• Numbness or tingling in the toes

As your neuroma grows, the pain gets more intense, and your risk of permanent nerve damage increases.

When should I get podiatry care for Morton’s neuroma?

You should get podiatry care for Morton’s neuroma at Mid-South Foot & Ankle Specialists as soon as you have symptoms. Early diagnosis and treatment may prevent long-term problems.

During your visit, your podiatrist takes a thorough history of your symptoms and examines your foot. During the physical exam, they may press on certain areas of your foot to reproduce the symptoms.

Your podiatrist may also order imaging tests to confirm or rule out a diagnosis. Mid-South Foot & Ankle Specialists use ultrasound imaging to help diagnose conditions like Morton’s neuroma.

What are the treatments for Morton’s neuroma?

Treatment for Morton’s neuroma at Mid-South Foot & Ankle Specialists depends on the severity of your problem. For mild to moderate neuromas, your podiatrist recommends:

• Custom orthotics to improve arch support
• Icing to reduce swelling
• Change in shoewear
• Activity modification
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
• Corticosteroid injections

If your Morton’s neuroma is severe or fails to improve with medical intervention, the skilled foot and ankle surgeons at Mid-South Foot & Ankle Specialists may recommend surgery.

The foot and ankle surgeons customize surgical plans using the most advanced tools and techniques so you get the best outcomes.

Early diagnosis and treatment for Morton’s neuroma may prevent permanent nerve damage. Call Mid-South Foot & Ankle Specialists or schedule your evaluation online today.