Do you continually feel like there's a pebble in your shoe even when there isn’t one? Or do you repeatedly reach down to straighten a bunched-up sock only to realize it’s still perfectly smooth? These are common symptoms of a foot condition known as a neuroma.
A neuroma can develop when the nerves between your toes become inflamed. The affected nerve bands then start to thicken and become enlarged. As the nerve damage worsens, you may notice pain and tingling in the ball of your foot, making it difficult to walk. In addition, neuromas almost always make it feel like you’re standing on a marble or stone.
Oftentimes, neuromas develop between your third and fourth toes, and this type is referred to as Morton’s neuroma.
At the Foot and Ankle Institute of Colorado in Colorado Springs, Colorado, expert podiatrists Matthew Hinderland, DPM, Jordan Cameron, DPM, Trevor Whiting, DPM, and Joseph Fleck, DPM, lead our team in the treatment of Morton’s neuroma.
This month’s blog focuses on how Morton’s neuroma can develop and when you might need surgery for one.
Morton’s neuroma develops when the bands of nerves in your foot become compressed, causing them to become irritated and swollen as a result. While there’s no singular cause of Morton’s neuroma, anything that puts undue pressure on those nerves too often can lead to damage and neuroma formation.
These are some risk factors that can increase your likelihood of Morton’s neuroma:
If you have any other foot conditions, such as bunions, flat feet, or high arches, you’re also at a higher risk for developing Morton’s neuroma.
If you notice any signs of Morton’s neuroma, it’s important to have it treated right away. Early detection increases the chance of conservative treatment being effective and reduces the risk of permanent nerve damage.
As long as your Morton’s neuroma isn’t too severe, a combination of these treatments should be enough to take the pressure off the affected nerve and reduce inflammation:
However, if these treatments aren’t enough to reduce inflammation and pain, surgery might be required to get you the relief you need.
Morton’s neuroma surgery can either remove a portion of the damaged nerves or take some of the pressure off the affected nerve by removing ligaments and other structures surrounding it.
If you suspect that you have Morton’s neuroma, don’t wait to seek expert-level care from our team. Schedule an appointment for Morton’s neuroma treatment by calling 719-488-4664 or using our online booking feature today.
