Neuroma
Sports Medicine & Orthopedics in Valdosta, GA
A neuroma can cause sharp, burning pain, tingling, or numbness in the toes or ball of the foot, making walking uncomfortable. At Valdosta Orthopedic Associates in Valdosta, Georgia, the specialists provide expert evaluation and personalized treatment options to relieve neuroma pain and restore foot function. Call the office or schedule your appointment online today.
Morton’s Neuroma
What is Morton’s neuroma?
Morton’s neuroma is a painful nerve condition that develops between the toes, most commonly between the third and fourth toes. It occurs when the nerve tissue thickens due to irritation or compression, leading to inflammation and discomfort in the ball of the foot.
What Causes Morton’s Neuroma?
The primary cause of Morton’s neuroma is compression or chronic irritation of the interdigital nerve. Excess pressure—often caused by narrowing between the toe bones—can lead to scar tissue formation and nerve thickening.
Contributing factors may include repetitive stress on the forefoot, improper footwear, and structural foot abnormalities.
What Are the Symptoms of Morton’s Neuroma?
Morton’s neuroma is more common in women than in men. Symptoms may include:
- Burning or sharp pain in the ball of the foot
- Pain that radiates into the toes
- Numbness or tingling in the affected toes
- Difficulty walking due to discomfort
Wearing narrow or high-heeled shoes often worsens symptoms by increasing pressure on the nerve.
How Is Morton’s Neuroma Diagnosed?
Your provider can often diagnose Morton’s neuroma through a physical examination of the foot. Palpation between the toes may reveal a tender, thickened area.
Imaging studies, such as X-rays, may be ordered to rule out other causes of foot pain, including bone abnormalities.
What Are the Treatment Options for Morton’s Neuroma?
Early treatment is important to prevent worsening symptoms. Many cases of Morton’s neuroma respond well to conservative care.
Non-surgical treatment options may include:
- Rest and activity modification
- Ice therapy to reduce swelling
- Anti-inflammatory medications
- Footwear modifications, including low-heeled shoes and a wide toe box
- Padding or orthotics to reduce pressure between the toes
- Physical therapy to improve foot mechanics
- Sclerosing injections,
such as alcohol ablation, performed under ultrasound guidance to chemically reduce nerve tissue
Surgical treatment
Surgery is considered when conservative treatments fail to relieve symptoms. Indications for surgery may include persistent pain, failure of injections, or significant impact on daily activities.
Surgical treatment may involve releasing the compressed nerve or removing the affected portion of the nerve (neurectomy), depending on severity and findings.
Expert Neuroma Care in Valdosta, GA
If neuroma pain is interfering with your ability to walk or stay active, the specialists at Valdosta Orthopedic Associates can help. Serving patients throughout Valdosta, Georgia, the team offers comprehensive care to relieve pain and restore comfort. Call today or schedule your appointment online.
