How to Identify Morton's Neuroma and How to Treat It

Image via WikipediaMorton's neuroma is an inflammation of the nerve fibers between the balls of the foot. Though a neuroma can occur anywhere in the foot, this type is usually found between the third and fourth toes.

Morton's neuroma, also called intermetatarsal neuroma, is caused by constant pressure to the nerves between the toes of the foot. This irritates the nerves causing inflammation and swelling.

Morton's neuroma symptoms start with numbness, tingling or burning sensation of the foot. In moderate cases, foot pain is characterized by shooting pain underneath the foot. In advanced cases, pain can be so severe and some patients may not be able to walk for many hours or days.

Non-surgical treatment involves applying ice packs, use of foot padding, wearing orthotic devices, behavioral modifications, taking pain relievers and directly injecting steroids on the affected area. These treatments are aimed in reducing pain and swelling.

Your podiatrist will likely suggest surgery if the above management do not provide pain relief. A surgical procedure that freezes the neuroma is an effective treatment. This is called cryosurgery of neuromas. The procedure requires only a small incision, then a probe is inserted and placed where the neuroma is located, this takes less than 20 minutes. Ultrasound is used to guide the metal probe real time. Then the neuroma is cooled down to -70 Fahrenheit. This is a relatively easy procedure in expert hands that require no stitching.

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Company Address: 661 Goodlette Road, Suite 101
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