Reviewed by Janet D. Pearl, MD, MSc
Morton’s neuroma is a common musculoskeletal condition that is characterized by moderate to severe pain and/or numbness in the forefoot due to compression of the plantar digital nerves. The most frequently reported sites of nerve compression are third and fourth inter-metatarsal spaces.
Even though it is called Morton’s neuroma, it is not really a neuroma and it’s not a tumor – it’s a nerve entrapment. It is important to understand that the pain and symptoms will generally progress and get worse if you do not treat it. A fair chunk of the population may also develop long term complications or some degree of disability due to untreated Morton’s neuroma. For example, it has been observed that a large number of chronic sufferers of Morton’s neuroma adopt abnormal gait to avoid pain and discomfort. Unfortunately, abnormal walking changes can directly pose pressure on other structures in your body and may aggravate the risk of arthritis, joint degeneration, stress fractures and other musculoskeletal injuries.
The prevalence of non-painful Morton’s neuroma in general population is about 30%(1) although one study reports it as high as 54%(2). This means that about one third to one half of the population is living with radiologically visible Morton’s neuroma. Does that mean all these folks should be treated?
The answer is a big No. That’s because, most neuromas are asymptomatic and are only identified incidentally on a radiological scan. So there is no need to do anything, unless you are experiencing foot pain or discomfort. If you are experiencing symptoms suggestive of a Morton’s neuroma, you should be evaluated by a clinical who is well experienced in diagnosing Mortons neuroma.
Some indications for seeking treatment for Morton’s neuroma are:
In these cases, you should investigate what is causing your neuroma pain and seek the most appropriate non-surgical treatment.
We specialize in non-surgical procedures to treat Morton’s neuroma.
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