Causes and risk factors
Morton’s neuroma is caused due to compression of nerve between ends of metatarsal bones at the base of toes. It occurs commonly in third and fourth metatarsal spaces. Compression can occur due to improper or tight footwear, those involved in sports like athletics, rock climbing, wearing high heeled shoes, pes planus [flat foot], pes cavus [high arches], bunions.
Clinical presentation
Burning pain in the ball of the foot which may radiate into the toes, sensation of standing on a pebble or razor blades in the shoe, pain on weight bearing, tingling or numbness in the toes, paresthesia. The pain is usually increased by walking or when the ball of the foot is squeezed together and is decreased with massaging.
Investigation
Medical history by the patient and Clinical examination by the doctor helps in diagnosis. Investigations include X ray of the foot, MRI, ultrasound of the foot.
Treatment
Avoiding high heels and shifting to flat shoes, use of shoe inserts, foot pads is the symptomatic treatment. Further treatment with steroid injections may be done. Surgical treatment includes nerve decompression surgery, in severe cases surgical removal of the nerve may be advised.
Other Modes of treatment
The other modes of treatment can also be effective in treating Morton’s neuroma.
Homoeopathy is a science which deals with individualization considers a person in a holistic way. This science can be helpful in combating the symptoms. Similarly the ayurvedic system of medicine which uses herbal medicines and synthetic derivates are also found to be effective in treating Morton’s neuroma.
