Morton's Neuroma: What is it?

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Morton's Neuroma is a common cause of forefoot pain among podiatrists, and it is a common complaint that occurs along the ball of the foot. In most cases, neuromas occur in front of the third and fourth toes as a result of pinched and swollen nerves. Second and third toes, however, can also experience them.

Mortons neuromas are caused by what?

Shoes with high heels and narrow or pointed toes are most commonly associated with Morton's Neuroma. The development of a neuroma can also be caused by activities that place pressure on the ball of the foot, such as running, ballet, and soccer.

What does it look like and what does it feel like when you have Morton's neuroma?

It is common for Morton's Neuromas to cause numbness, tingling, and burning localized in the affected area. Sharp and aching pain may also occur. Usually, the pain radiates into adjacent portions of the third and fourth toes and is localized between the affected toes. It is not uncommon for patients to report feeling as if they are walking on pebbles or having their socks bunched up.

Performing a physical examination to determine Morton's neuroma risk

Morton's neuromas can be diagnosed with a physical exam test known as Mulder's Sign. Squeezing the foot side-to-side with the other hand while pushing up with the opposite thumb on the bottom of the foot in the area of the pain is done for this test. Neuromas are often detected by feeling a click or causing pain.

Why should Morton's Neuroma patients see a foot specialist?

A neuroma is frequently diagnosed by a specialist when home treatments fail to relieve the pain, hammertoes develop, or swelling occurs on the ball of the foot. The ball of the foot can also be painful for other reasons. Hammertoes, tendinitis, metatarsalgia, stress fractures, and plantar warts are some of the differential diagnoses for Morton's Neuroma.

Symptoms and treatment of Morton's Neuroma

It is important to seek the care of a podiatrist if you suffer from forefoot pain due to a neuroma. In addition to confirming the appropriate diagnosis, a foot and ankle specialist can help develop a treatment plan that offers the best chance of bringing relief. Morton's Neuroma, as well as all other major conditions affecting the lower extremity, can be diagnosed and treated by Dr. Roohian.

You can contact our office at 949-588-8833, or visit our website at https://www.ocfootdoctor.com/. Our offices are located in Laguna Hills, Irvine, Mission Viejo, Aliso Viejo, Lake Forest, Foothill Ranch, and Costa Mesa.