What is Morton's Neuroma and how can it be treated?

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What is Morton's Neuroma?

The condition commonly known as Morton’s Neuroma is in fact NOT a neuroma (nerve tumour). However, this term has been in common use for a condition that should be properly called Inter Digital Neuralgia. This is a painful swelling or irritation of the digital nerve that runs between the metatarsal bones. Entrapment of this nerve causes pain in the ball of the foot that radiates to the toes.

Symptoms of Morton's Neuroma

Pain, numbness and a tingling sensation are the main symptoms of Morton's Neuroma. This usually presents when the foot is enclosed in a shoe and while standing or walking. Pain is usually experienced in a specific area of the forefoot and radiates into the toes. The condition commonly affects the 3rd /4th toes and sometimes the 2nd /3rd toes but may occur between any of the toes. As the condition progresses, shooting pains (like electric shocks) may be felt, even while not weight bearing. Occasionally a ‘clicking’ sensation is associated with the pain.

Kent’s Holistic Foot & Ankle specialists

The Sajid Shariff clinic is a private orthopaedic clinic based in SE London and Kent that specialises in surgical and non-surgical treatment of foot and ankle conditions including Morton's Neuroma, plantar fasciitis, ankle sprains, bunions and achilles tendonitis.

Keep an eye on the shape of your feet; if you see changes see a doctor to find out if there are any recommendations to prevent hallux valgus from forming

Use a variety of exercises to stretch your feet and calves

Try to avoid shoes that have a heel or pointed toe

Common causes of Morton's Neuroma

Irritation of the digital nerve: Over a prolonged period of time, repeated injury causes the nerve or bursa to become inflamed and painful.

Inappropriate footwear: Tight fitting shoes or the constant wearing of high heels combined with thin hard soles shifts the body weight onto the ball of the foot and increases the pressure on the nerve. It is therefore more common in women between the ages of 25 to 50 years.

Diagnosis of Morton's Neuroma

The diagnosis of Morton’s Neuroma may be difficult and much depends on the history and description of the problem.

Physical examination

The foot is examined and a test called Mulder’s Test which involves squeezing the foot is often performed. A palpable ‘click’ followed by pain shooting out into the toes and back into the foot (known as the Mulder’s Click) may indicate the presence of a Morton’s Neuroma. The doctor will also assess any numbness you may have in your toes.

Diagnostic imaging

Radiographs (x rays) may be taken to investigate underlying problems. An ultrasound scan may be performed. This involves using sound to generate an image of the soft tissue between the metatarsals. If the diagnosis proves difficult, an MRI (magnetic resonance imaging scan) may be carried out.

Treatments we offer for Morton's Neuroma

Non Surgical Treatments

Appropriate shoes and orthotics

This is directed at modifying footwear and insoles and extra wide soft shoes with cushioning to the soles often help to offload the forefoot, thus improving symptoms.

Injection

A steroid or cortisone in conjunction with a local anaesthetic (lignocaine) injected into the area around the nerve relieves pain in about 40% of cases. Ultrasound guided injections can also be useful in localizing the site of the swelling.

Surgical Treatments

If conservative methods are unsuccessful surgery may be necessary. This has about an 80% success rate. See Surgical excision of Morton’s Neuroma

Book a call with one of our team

Find out how we can help you with your Morton's Neuroma with non-surgical and surgery treatments. Simply fill in this contact form and our Medical Secretary will be in touch to schedule a time that works for you.

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Testimonials

Thank you to you and your team for making my ankle better. Your care and understanding are really appreciated.

Pamela

Thank you Dr Shariff for helping me walk again, pain free.

Patricia

I experienced a very thorough assessment and every step of the process was excellent. I would highly recommend Dr Shariff and his team.

David

What is Morton's Neuroma and how can it be treated?