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MORTON’S NEUROMA

A Morton's neuroma is a benign nerve enlargement usually developing between the 3^rd and 4^th toes.  It is characterized by a piercing, electric shock sensation at the 3^rd and 4^th toes and numbness in the 2^nd and 5^th toes.

This can occur on one or both feet and a hammertoe commonly accompanies a Morton’s neuroma.

Other names or similar foot conditions:

• Intermetatarsal neuroma
• Interdigital neuroma

Symptoms:

• Immediate sharp pain in the forefoot between the 3^rd and 4^th toes while standing or walking
• Burning and irritation in the neuroma area
• Numbness in toes on either side of the neuroma

Signs to look for:

• Pain aggravated by squeezing the foot from side to side
• Hammer toe on affected foot
• Sandals may be more comfortable than shoes

Possible Causes:

• Heredity
• Chronically wearing shoes that are too narrow
• Chronically wearing shoes that are too small or too large
• Regularly wearing high heels

Goals:

• Take pressure off forefoot
• Footwear that moves the foot forward and provides as little lateral movement as possible
• Restore balance and stability in gait

Solutions:

Arch Supports:

• Bio-Orthotics Winstep or Sundance exercising support with metatarsal lift

• Lower and thinner arch support with longitudinal and metatarsal support, such as the Bio-Orthotics Journey or Silhouette, for use when shoes cannot accommodate the Winstep or Sundance exercising support

• Extra depth shoes with firm heel counter, high toe box and rocker sole

• MBT physiological footwear

• Shoes with stretchable uppers if hammer toe a problem

• For exercise, wear shoes with titanium springs

• Wear pumps and high heels only as long as absolutely necessary

• Avoid going barefoot or do so on a minimal basis only

Other: 

• To accommodate hammertoe:  Spot stretching with ball and ring stretcher

• If toes also overlapping, toe cushioning and straightening devices, such as toe separators, toe straighteners, toe gel caps, etc.

Activities:

Rotate weight-bearing exercises, such as walking or jogging, with non-weight bearing exercising, such as swimming or bicycling

This information does not constitute a diagnosis of your condition and does not take the place of a doctor’s care.  The information has been compiled from sources available to the general public and referenced below.  Copyright 2005 Carole Romig

Sources  Image:  J. Vonhof, Fixing Your Feet  Text: A. Decker, Contemporary Pedorthics, G. Copeland, DPM, The Foot Book