Morton's Neuroma (Intermetatarsal Neuroma)
Neuroma
Neuroma is the condition that occurs with the thickening of
nerve tissue that may develop in various parts of the body. The
most common Neuroma is a Morton's Neuroma, which occurs between the
third and fourth toes. Often known as an intermetatarsal Neuroma,
"Intermetatarsal" describes its location in the ball of the foot
between the metatarsal bones. Neuroma may also occur in other parts
of the foot. Neuroma (MortonThe thickening) or enlargement, of the
nerve often caused by the compression and irritation of the nerve.
This leads to the enlargement of the nerve, eventually leading to
permanent nerve damage.
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Causes
Although even experts are not able to figure out the exact
causes of Neuroma, any kind of compression or irritation leads to
the condition. One of the most common causes of Neuroma is wearing
shoes that have a tapered toe box, or high-heeled shoes. Certain
foot deformities such as bunions, hammertoes, flatfeet may also led
to the higher risk of developing Neuroma. Other potential causes of
Neuroma include; activities that involve repetitive irritation to
the ball of the foot, such as running or court sports. An injury or
other type of trauma to the area may also lead to a Neuroma.
Symptoms of Neuroma
One of the most common symptoms of Neuroma is pain in the
inter-space between the third and fourth toe. The pain could be
sharp or dull, and the condition becomes worse by wearing shoes and
walking. However, the pain is usually less severe if the body
weight is on the lower side.
Patient diagnosed with Morton's Neuroma generally complain of
tingling, burning, or numbness, pain. In some cases, patients might
also feel like there is something inside the ball of the foot.
Morton's Neuroma often follows the same pattern. For instance its
symptoms begin gradually and the pain is felt only sometimes like
while wearing narrow-toed shoes or performing certain aggravating
activities. The symptoms become worse over time and may persist for
several days or weeks even if you avoid walking.
Diagnosis
Doctors normally diagnose the Neuroma by reading the patient's
medical history. The doctor may also check for Neuroma by pressing
into the foot's affected inter-space. Under severe conditions,
patients may also need to undergo an X-Ray to check if there are
any fractures or Arthritis. MRI scan may also be requested to rule
out tumours and determine the size of the Neuroma.
Non-surgical Treatment
The very first step, before suggesting a treatment plan for
Neuroma, the foot and ankle surgeon will first determine how long
you've had the Neuroma. Treatment approach for Neuroma may vary
according to the type of Neuroma that varies from mild to moderate.
Treatment options may include:
Padding: This technique supports for the
metatarsal arch, thereby lessening the pressure on the nerve and
decreasing the compression when walking.
Icing: Placing an icepack on the affected area
also help reduce swelling.
Orthotic devices: Foot and ankle surgeon
provide some custom orthotic devices to provide the support needed
to reduce pressure and compression on the nerve.
Activity modifications: Patients are recommended to avoid any
kind of activities that put pressure on the Neuroma.
Shoe modifications: Wide toe box are recommended while avoid
narrow-toed or high-heeled shoes.
Oral non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as
ibuprofen, may also be recommended to reduce pain and
inflammation.