How Is it Diagnosed??
While invisible, Morton's Neuroma is no less painful. The patient's description of symptoms and physical examination usually lead to a diagnosis.
Morton's neuroma, also called Morton's metatarsalgia or Morton's syndrome, is a relatively common and very painful condition of the forefoot. It is the result of inflammation of the interdigital plantar nerves, typically between the 3rd and 4th rays of the foot, but can occur between all other metatarsals. The irritation causes a swelling causing discomfort and pain.
Although the exact cause of neuromas is uncertain, certain factors such as wearing unsuitable shoes (high heel, too thin soles, too narrow toes) or the practice of activities requiring repetitive foot movements such as skiing, dancing or running increase their likelyhood. Thickening of the tissue around the nerves following injury or irritation can also be the cause of the problem. Morton's neuromas affect adults, with a clear predominance in women (75%).
While invisible, Morton's Neuroma is no less painful. The patient's description of symptoms and physical examination usually lead to a diagnosis.
Morton's neuroma manifests itself as discomfort, numbness, and even a burning sensation or electric shock in the front of the foot that radiates into the toes. The pain, is felt particularly when standing or walking. The discomfort is like that of a pebble in the shoe.
Removing shoes and massaging the feet normally provides rapid relief fo the symptoms.
Morton's Neuromas
The procedure, which involves decompressing or excising the involved nerve(s), is performed under local anesthesia and allows the patient to rapidly resume their daily activities.
The surgery offers definitive results and the chances of recurrence are close to zero.
Various solutions can be offered to relieve this condition. Wearing shoes that limit the compression of the foot, such as wide shoes with rigid soles, and the use of plantar orthotics, especially with a cushion, are the recommended as first corrective measures.
Morton Syndrome is often referred to as sore feet. Compression of the nerves in the toes, often caused by wearing unsuitable shoes and practicing sports activities that put pressure on the foot, leads to the appearance of painful neuromas.
This condition typically causes a feeling of numbness as well as pain, which can be very severe and is often described as burns or electric shocks. Symptoms are particularly troublesome when standing.
Treatment for Morton's Neuroma requires surgery in only 40% of cases. Wearing shoes that limit the compression of the foot and the use of plantar orthotics are the first recommended corrective measures. Cortisone injections can also be effective when pain persists.
The operation is performed under local anesthesia with light sedation.
