Did you know that around 30 to 33% of people experiencing foot pain have Morton’s neuroma? It is a nerve disorder that occurs when an enlarged nerve around the ball of the foot gets damaged, or pressure causes pain and a feeling of numbness. If left untreated, it can cause serious complications, like permanent nerve damage, chronic pain, difficulty walking, and an abnormal gait. That’s why it is important that you identify the symptoms earlier and seek medical help. Learn the early signs of Morton’s neuroma and when to seek medical help in this article. Get a consultation with the best Podiatrists in Brooklyn.
What is Morton’s neuroma?
Morton’s neuroma is a nerve disorder that causes foot pain in the area between the third and fourth toes, affecting the ball of the foot. In some people, Morton’s neuroma causes the sensation of walking on an uneven stone or sock fold.
With Morton’s neuroma, swelling of the tissue surrounding one of your toe nerves causes pain and discomfort. As a result, the ball of your foot may feel like it is on fire. Your toes may feel stinging, scorching, or numb. Your foot’s third and fourth bones may be inflamed, causing these symptoms. The most common victims are runners. Wearing shoes that are too tight might increase the problem of overpronation. Having an orthotic fitted by a podiatrist can help alleviate pain and irritation.
Morton’s neuroma has been connected to the wearing of high-heeled or tight-fitting shoes. Many people find relief in lower-heeled shoes with bigger toe boxes. Surgery or cortisone injections may sometimes be necessary.
Causes
While the exact cause of Morton’s neuroma is unknown, it is believed that pressure on the affected nerve may contribute to damage and enlargement of the nerve.
The affected nerve lies between the spaces of the long bones in the forefoot, called the metatarsal bones. Usually, the damaged and enlarged nerve is between the metatarsal bones and is connected to the bones of the third and fourth toes; this affects the nerves between other metatarsal bones also may be affected.
Factors that worsen symptoms of Morton neuroma include:
- High-heeled or narrow shoes. High-heeled shoes or shoes with narrow toe boxes can put extra pressure on the toes and the ball of the foot.
- Activities. Walking, running, or other activities that put pressure on the ball of the foot may worsen or trigger pain.
Symptoms
This condition usually takes time to form into a lump. Here are the following signs and symptoms that you will notice.
Standing on a pebble in your shoe can give you the following sensations:
- A sharp and burning pain in your heel, which may extend to the toes
- Numbness or tingling in the toes.
Along with these signs, taking off your shoe and rubbing your foot can often help ease the pain.
When to go to the doctor?
Any foot pain that lasts more than a few days should be taken seriously. If you still suffer from a burning pain in the ball of your foot after making changes to your footwear and altering activities that may put stress on your foot, you should see a doctor for treatment.
Some of the most common reasons people go to a podiatrist
- Your feet do a lot of work.
- You’ll have walked 75,000 miles on them by the time you’re 50.
- There are complicated anatomical structures at your feet that need to function together flawlessly to keep you functional.
Morton’s Neuroma is a neurological condition that causes pain in the surrounding area of the ball of the foot. The exact cause is unknown, but it is believed that nerves around the ball either get compressed or damaged, causing this. Luckily, it is highly treatable depending on the severity and duration of the condition. Make sure you notice the symptoms on time and seek medical attention.
If you are having pain in the foot that lasts longer than a few days, visit Doral Health and Wellness. Our expert podiatrists will examine your foot and create a treatment plan that cures your pain and keeps your foot healthy. At Doral Health & Wellness, we have Podiatrists with extensive education and expertise. If you’re ready to take the next step in managing your pain, we recommend consulting with our healthcare provider to explore the right treatments or therapies for you. Always listen to your body and adjust your daily routine to prioritize your well-being. Trauma to the tendons, muscles, and bones of the foot is quite common. It’s not a good idea to put off seeing Foot Doctor Brooklyn until you are in a lot of pain. Our address is 1797 Pitkin Avenue, New York, NY 11212. To make an appointment, please call + 1 718 367 2555 or send an email to info@doralhw.org.
