Morton's neuroma

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Morton's neuroma
File:Neuroma de Morton.jpg
Synonyms	Intermetatarsal neuroma, interdigital neuroma
Pronounce	N/A
Specialty	N/A
Symptoms	Pain in the ball of the foot, tingling, numbness
Complications	Difficulty walking, chronic pain
Onset	Typically between ages 40 and 60
Duration	Can be chronic if untreated
Types	N/A
Causes	Repetitive trauma, ill-fitting shoes
Risks	High-heeled shoes, certain sports
Diagnosis	Physical examination, Ultrasound, MRI
Differential diagnosis	Metatarsalgia, Stress fracture, Arthritis
Prevention	Proper footwear, avoiding repetitive stress
Treatment	Orthotics, Corticosteroid injection, Surgery
Medication	NSAIDs
Prognosis	Good with treatment
Frequency	Common
Deaths	N/A

Morton's neuroma is a benign (non-cancerous) swelling along a nerve in the foot that carries sensations from the toes. The condition is named after Thomas George Morton, the doctor who first described it in 1876. It is a common condition that can cause significant discomfort, but there are many treatment options available.

File:Morton neuroma -- low mag.jpg

Morton neuroma

Symptoms

The symptoms of Morton's neuroma can vary, but often include:

• Pain in the front of the foot and between the toes
• Tingling and numbness in the toes
• A feeling like there's a pebble in your shoe

Causes

Morton's neuroma is caused by pressure, injury or irritation of a nerve. Factors that can contribute to the development of Morton's neuroma include:

• High-heeled shoes, especially those over two inches tall
• Shoes that are tight or ill-fitting
• Certain sports, such as running or court sports
• Foot deformities, such as bunions, hammer toes, flatfeet or more flexible feet

Diagnosis

To diagnose Morton's neuroma, a doctor will examine the foot and may order imaging tests, such as an X-ray, ultrasound or MRI.

Treatment

Treatment for Morton's neuroma depends on the severity of symptoms. Options include:

• Changing footwear
• Using arch supports or foot pads
• Taking painkillers or anti-inflammatory drugs
• Injections of steroid medication into the area
• In severe cases, surgery may be needed to remove the neuroma or to cut nearby structures to relieve pressure

See also

• Foot conditions
• Podiatry