Morton's neuroma is an inflammation of the nerves in the foot that go to the toes. Although the name includes the word “neuroma,” it is not really a tumor. It can affect any of the toes in the foot. However, it most often affects the nerves that run between the third and fourth or second and third toes.
Morton's neuroma is an inflammation caused by a buildup of fibrous tissue on the outer coating of nerves. This fibrous buildup is a reaction to the irritation resulting from nearby bones and ligaments rubbing against the nerves.
Irritation can be caused by:
It is unusual for more than one Morton's neuroma to occur on one foot at the same time. It is rare for Morton's neuroma to occur on both feet at the same time.
A risk factor is something that increases your chance of getting a disease or condition. Risk factors for Morton's neuroma include:
Symptoms of Morton's neuroma include the following sensations, usually between the third and fourth or (less often) second and third toes:
The doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history, and perform a physical exam. Initial diagnosis of Morton's neuroma is based on your description of the type and location of pain and discomfort in the foot. The diagnosis will be confirmed by:
Treatments may include:
Injecting the foot with corticosteroids mixed with a local anesthetic in order to reduce pain. Relief may be only temporary, however, if the mechanical irritation is not also corrected. Injections with other types of medications such as alcohol, phenol or even vitamin B12 are sometimes used.
Surgery to remove the neuroma may be recommended if more conservative treatment does not solve the problem. While surgery usually relieves or completely removes the symptoms, it often leaves a permanent numb feeling at the site of the neuroma.
RESOURCES:
American Academy of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
www.aapmr.org
American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons
http://www.acfas.org
American Podiatric Medical Association
http://www.apma.org
National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases
http://www.nih.gov/niams
CANADIAN RESOURCES:
Orthogate
http://www.orthogate.org/patient-education
Ontario Podiatric Medical Association
http://www.opma.ca/
References:
American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons website. Available at: http://www.acfas.org/ .
The Merck Manual of Medical Information . Simon and Schuster; 2000.
Scardina RJ, Lee SM. Frontera: Essentials of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation . Philadelphia, PA; Hanley and Belfus; 2002.
Thomson CE. Gibson JN. Martin D. Interventions for the treatment of Morton's neuroma. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews. 2004;(3):CD003118.
Last reviewed November 2008 by John C. Keel, MD
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
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