More about Mortons Neuroma...
Some Common Causes
- A "flat foot" type can be a cause of this problem. The rolling inward of your feet causes the area to be more likely to pinching and therefore the nerves can be trapped more easily.
- Wearing narrow pointed shoes will also cramp the foot up and can cause this problem.
- A very tight front part of your shoe will have a similar effect.
- The area between your third and fourth toe is the most common because this is where two nerves combine.
The Main Symptoms
- Pain in the area affected - ranging from mild to severe and sharp lancinating pain.
- The pain will over a period of time become more frequent and more severe as the nerve is slowly damaged.
- You may also experience numbness, tingling and a burning sensation.
- “Pins and needles” may be felt in the front part of your foot.
- You may also feel the pain radiating towards the front and in the direction of the back of your foot.
Cathy Bowen
MSc DPodM ILTM, Podiatrist
Mortons Neuroma
When your feet hurt between your toes it could be that you havethis condition. It is a swelling and trapping of the nerves that run inbetween your toes, and is most commonly found between your third andfourth toes.
Suggested Treatments for Mortons Neuroma
Obviously have a critical look at your footwear
- make sure that your shoes fit properly
- that they have enough room in the front
of the shoe (the toe box) and if you do have
this condition already then this point is even
more important as any further compression is
going to make your situation much worse.
Make sure you also pay attention to your
socks, tights and hosiery making sure that
these items are not too tight either.
Take your shoes off and massage the affected area.
Wear metatarsal padding such as a gel or felt pad.
Consider using over the counter pain
relief drugs such as Ibuprofen.
Consider wearing corrective foot devices
such as Orthotics which will help realign your
feet and prevent them from "rolling in".
Treating your condition
The Traffic Light symbol at the top of each condition page indicates the way you should approach it:
Red: Seek professional help immediately, either from a suitably qualified Podiatrist or Physiotherapist.
Amber: You can treat this condition yourself BUT you should seek professional help if you want reassurance that what you are doing is the best approach for you.
Green: You can treat this condition yourself if you feel comfortable doing so. However, for further reassurance it might be as well to talk the condition through with a suitably qualified Podiatrist.
Remember this advice is for guidance only and if you are in any doubt at all, please consult your nearest HPC Registered Podiatrist.