Understanding Morton’s Neuroma
What is a Morton’s Neuroma? Feeling a sharp pain in the ball of your foot? Is there a strange sensation in your shoe, as if there’s a small, phantom pebble stuck inside? These could be signs of Morton’s Neuroma, is a condition involving a nerve in your foot. In this blog, Advanced Foot Care of NJ will explain what a neuroma is, why it develops in the first place, and how you can respond when it’s bugging you!
What Exactly is a Neuroma? (A Pinched Nerve Problem)
Contrary to what the name might suggest, Morton’s Neuroma is not a tumor.
- Rather, it’s a benign condition where the tissue surrounding a nerve becomes thickened and irritated.
- This typically occurs on the nerve that runs between your metatarsal bones, most commonly between the third and fourth toes.
- Think of it as a nerve that is being persistently pinched or compressed, causing it to become inflamed and painful.
Why Does It Happen? Common Causes and Risk Factors
This nerve irritation doesn’t happen randomly. It’s usually caused by factors that compress or put stress on the forefoot, such as:
- Improper Footwear: This is a major culprit. Shoes with a tapered or pointed toe box squeeze the toes and metatarsal bones together, pinching the nerve.
- High heels also contribute by shifting more body weight onto the ball of the foot, increasing pressure on these nerves.
- Certain Foot Deformities: Conditions like bunions, hammertoes, or flat feet can alter the alignment of the foot bones, leading to instability and increased pressure on the nerve.
- Repetitive Stress or Trauma: High-impact activities or sports that put repeated stress on the ball of the foot can lead to the development of a neuroma over time.
Spotting the Signs: How to Identify Morton’s Neuroma
Symptoms often start gradually and may come and go. Be aware of these tell-tale signs:
- Pain: The most common symptom is pain in the ball of your foot, often described as burning, sharp, or shooting. This pain may radiate into the adjacent toes.
- Numbness or Tingling: You might experience “pins and needles” or a lack of sensation in the affected toes.
- The “Pebble” Sensation: That classic feeling of having something inside your shoe, like a small rock or a fold in your sock, is highly characteristic of a neuroma.
NOTE: Symptoms often feel worse when wearing tight shoes or during activity and are frequently relieved by removing shoes and massaging the foot.
Get Answers & Take Action!
Experiencing pain, burning, or numbness in the ball of your foot? Seek a professional evaluation with us. We’ll give you the answers you’re after and the treatment you need.
At Advanced Foot Care of NJ, LLC, our doctor and staff look forward to resolving all of your family’s podiatric healthcare needs. We proudly serve the communities of Little Falls, Cedar Grove, Verona, Stoney Road, Sandy Hill, Albion Place, and Great Notch. Contact us today to schedule an appointment!