Definition
Neuromas commonly occur when the metatarsal arch drops and pinches a nerve between the third and fourth matatarsal bones.
Symptoms
Patients experience sharp pain, burning, and even a lack of feeling between base of toes and metatarsal area. Morton’s Neuroma may also cause numbness, tingling, and discoloration of the third and fourth toes. Patients may feel a swelling between the toes, or a feeling similar to a rock in the shoe. This can feel like electric shocks, similar to hitting.
Biomechanical etiology
Refers to aetiology of Metatarsalgia. Tight footwear or high heels can often lead to a neuroma. Constricting shoes can squeeze the metatarsals together, pinch the nerve between the toes, and cause pain. Over time, this may cause the Fibrotic nerve in matatarsal bones is often caused by repeatedly inflammation of the nerve.
Treatment
In the early stage of Morton’s Neuroma, orthotic devices can be used to reduce the damage to the nerve sheath. Orthotics help to re-distribute the weight on the forefoot and prevent pinched nerves between the third and fourth matatarsal bones. Orthotics often place a pad, like the Metatarsal Gel Pad, behind the ball-of-the-foot to reduce pressure, and relieve the pain caused by the neuroma. Surgery is suggested if the nerve is severely fibrotic. Application of ice on the affected area. Footwear with a high and wide toe box (toe area).
Exercises
Intrinsic forefoot exercises