Fields of treatment / Neurosurgery / Morton’s neuroma
Morton’s neuroma
Morton’s neuroma is caused by compression and irritation of plantar nerves in your foot. This happens when you put excessive pressure on the nerves as you walk. There is an increased risk of having this condition if you wear footwear that is too tight. Narrow shaping of the toe box causes your toes to be compressed. Excessive pressure and strain lead to tissue damage along the nerves in your foot. Less frequently, more nerves may be affected, and Morton’s neuroma develops.
Symptoms of Morton’s neuroma:
Patients report burning and stiffness in their toes and pain in the ball of their foot. The neuroma most frequently develops in the area between the third and fourth toes. But it also occurs between the second and third toes. There may also be unpleasant tingling or numbness in the toes.
Diagnostics
In most cases, the diagnosis of Morton's neuralgia is made by a neurologist as he or she evaluates typical symptoms described by the patient and confirmed by EMG test that check electrical activity in the lower limb nerves
Treatment
Initially, Morton’s neuroma is usually treated conservatively. It can be managed by changing footwear or by adding shoe inserts. Relief can be achieved by injections of corticosteroid or taking not steroidal medication. Physiotherapy is an effective treatment as well, involving some exercises and changes to walking routine. If the symptoms do not improve after conservative management, surgery may be necessary. This is often done on an outpatient basis.
The surgery involves releasing and decompressing the nerve for the symptoms never to return. The procedure is performed under a local anaesthetic. The surgeon makes a small incision on the top or bottom of your foot to access the nerve, release it while maintaining its full mobility. In some cases, it might be necessary to remove the nerve itself. However, this will result in the affected area becoming numb.
