Morton's Neuroma
Relief for Forefoot Pain Starts with the Right Diagnosis
What Is Morton's Neuroma?
Morton's neuroma is a painful condition that affects the ball of your foot, most commonly the area between your third and fourth toes. It involves a thickening of the tissue around one of the nerves leading to your toes. This can cause a sharp, burning pain in the ball of your foot. Your toes also may sting, burn or feel numb.
What Causes Morton's Neuroma?
The condition often develops in response to irritation, pressure or injury to one of the nerves that lead to your toes. Common factors include wearing high-heeled or tight-fitting shoes, participating in high-impact athletic activities like running, or having foot deformities such as bunions, hammertoes, or flat feet.
Conservative Treatment
Early intervention is key to avoiding surgery. Conservative approaches include switching to shoes with wider toe boxes, using custom orthotics to provide better cushioning and support, and activity modification to reduce pressure on the forefoot. Corticosteroid injections may also be used to reduce inflammation and pain.
Radial Shockwave Therapy (EPAT)
Extracorporeal Pulse Activation Technology (EPAT) is a highly effective, non-invasive treatment option. It uses acoustic pressure waves to stimulate blood circulation and accelerate the healing process in the damaged nerve tissue. This advanced therapy helps many patients find relief without the need for downtime or invasive procedures.
Surgical Management
If conservative treatments fail to provide relief, surgical intervention may be necessary. Our specialized surgical techniques focus on decompressing the nerve or removing the diseased portion of the nerve (neurectomy). We prioritize minimally invasive approaches to ensure a quicker recovery and return to activity.
When Should You See a Podiatrist?
It's important not to ignore foot pain that lasts longer than a few days. If you experience persistent burning, tingling, or the sensation that you are walking on a pebble, schedule an evaluation. Early diagnosis allows for more effective conservative treatment options.