A Morton’s neuroma is a benign nerve enlargement usually developing between the 3rd and 4th toes. It is characterized by a piercing, electric shock sensation at the 3rd and 4th toes and numbness in the 2nd and 5th toes. This can occur on one or both feet. A hammertoe commonly accompanies a Morton’s neuroma.
Generally speaking, those with this condition aggravate a predisposition to it by wearing shoes that are too narrow or too short. Adding an arch support with a metatarsal lift to a shoe that fits correctly can reduce the symptoms completely.
A Morton’s neuroma will not really go away. There are laser treatments that will dissolve it but it will return if not wearing arch supports and correct footwear. Absent the laser treatment, wearing supports and the right shoes will cause the symptoms to disappear, but it will return rather quickly if not wearing the supports.
Other names or similar foot conditions:
- Intermetatarsal neuroma
- Interdigital neuroma
Symptoms:
- Immediate sharp pain in the forefoot between the 3rd and 4th 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
How We Help:
Arch Supports:
- BioOrthotics exercising support with metatarsal lift
- Lower and thinner arch support with longitudinal and metatarsal support for use when shoes cannot accommodate the BioOrthotics exercising support
Shoes:
- Extra depth, double or triple depth shoe with high toe box, firm heel counter, rocker sole and connecting shank
- Special attention to length and width of shoes
- Smart footwear, such as heel to toe rockers, negative heel shoes or shoes with titanium springs
- Avoid flip-flops. Only wear sandals with a back and only the Orthaheel, Alegria or Aetrex brand
- Shoes with stretchable uppers if hammertoe rubs on shoe
- 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
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 2005-2010 Carole Romig
Sources Image: J. Vonhof, Fixing Your Feet Text: A. Decker, Contemporary Pedorthics, G. Copeland, DPM, The Foot Book