How to Treat Morton's neuroma
Each of us have nerves in our feet that provide us with sensation; however, some of those nerve endings can abnormally swell into a benign tumor called a Morton's neuroma. Typically located between either the second and third toes or the third and fourth no one is completely sure why this process occurs though there are many theories which focus on abnormal foot biomechanics. Though the causes of a Morton's neuroma may vary the burning pain, numbness and tingling located on the balls of the feet are relatively consistent. How should you treat a Morton's neuroma?
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Instructions
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Wear proper fitting shoes that have adequate room for your toes. Women suffer from Morton's neuroma five times more frequently than men because they wear tight confining high heels that put abnormal pressure on the foot and toes.
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Avoid repetitive trauma to the feet. If you jog for exercise temporarily switch to a less weight bearing aerobic exercise until foot pain improves.
To prevent a Morton's neuroma avoid running on concrete or asphalt. -
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After weight bearing exercise or wearing tight high heels take off your shoes and soak them in a bucket of ice water for fifteen minutes. Local massage can help to treat Morton's neuroma pain as well.
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Rest and elevate your foot as frequently as possible to help treat Morton's neuroma.
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Begin taking an OTC anti-inflammatory agent such as ibuprofen or naproxen to help treat the pain and swelling of a Morton's neuroma.
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Purchase a small foam support to place beneath the Morton's neuroma while wearing shoes. A more expensive alternative is to have a custom orthotic made to provide additional forefoot support.
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Schedule an appointment with your doctor or get referred to an orthopedic surgeon if you fail to improve with conservative measures. Once other medical conditions are ruled out your Morton's neuroma will likely be treated with a cortisone-anesthetic injection.
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Tips & Warnings
A Morton's neuroma develops due to chronic repetitive trauma rather than as a result of a single injury.
Having concomitant osteoarthritis can predispose the development of a Morton's neuroma.
On occasion surgery is performed to remove a Morton's neuroma.
