Marble in your foot? Understanding Morton’s Neuroma: A Podiatrist’s Overview

As a podiatrist, I frequently encounter patients experiencing discomfort in the ball of their foot. One common cause of this pain is Morton’s neuroma, a condition that can significantly impact daily activities if left unresolved.

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‍What Is Morton’s Neuroma?

‍Morton’s neuroma is a benign thickening of the tissue surrounding a nerve leading to the toes, commonly occurring between the 2nd and 3rd metatarsal bones and also the 3rd and 4th bones. This thickening results from compression and irritation of the interdigital nerve, often due to factors like tight footwear, high heels, or repetitive stress.

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‍Symptoms to Watch For

‍Individuals with Morton’s neuroma often report:

• A sensation of standing on a marble or fold in a sock
• Sharp, burning pain in the forefoot
• Numbness or tingling between the toes
• Pain that worsens with activity or tight footwear
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These symptoms can mimic other foot conditions, making accurate diagnosis essential.

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‍Diagnosis and Treatment

‍Diagnosis typically involves a physical examination, including palpation of the affected area. Imaging studies, such as ultrasound or MRI, may be used to confirm the diagnosis and assess the extent of nerve involvement.

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‍Treatment options include:

• Conservative Measures:

• Wearing shoes with a wide toe box and adequate support.  Rocker sole shoes can help alleviate the pressure in the forefoot especially
• Using metatarsal pads or custom orthotics to reduce pressure on the affected area
• Applying ice and resting the foot to alleviate inflammation
• Taking anti-inflammatory medications as prescribed

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• Advanced Therapies:

• Corticosteroid injections to reduce inflammation
• Cryosurgery, a minimally invasive procedure that uses cold to destroy the nerve tissue
• Surgical intervention, such as neurectomy, to remove the affected nerve, only considered when conservative treatments fail

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Prevention Tips

‍To reduce the risk of developing Morton’s neuroma:

• Choose footwear with a roomy toe box and low heels
• Avoid prolonged periods of high-impact activities, especially barefoot
• Maintain a healthy weight to minimize foot stress

If you're experiencing persistent foot pain, consulting with a podiatrist is crucial for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan. Early intervention can prevent the condition from worsening and improve your quality of life quite drastically

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