Do you feel like you have a pebble in your shoe even when you know there’s not? This could be a symptom of Morton’s neuroma. Fortunately, when you visit The Podiatry Group of South Texas, serving various regions throughout Southern Texas, you’ll see a foot doctor who can provide either nonsurgical or surgical treatment to help relieve the uncomfortable symptoms of Morton’s neuroma.
What is Morton’s Neuroma?
Morton’s neuroma is an issue that occurs in the ball of the foot. In most cases, it affects the third or fourth toe. When you have this condition, the tissue surrounding a nerve in the foot thickens. As a result, it places pressure on the surrounding nerves. Because of this, you may feel a sharp, burning sensation in the area. This burning may extend to your toes. You might notice a stinging or numbness in your toes, as well. Some people feel like they have a pebble in their shoe when they stand or walk. The sensation can also be similar to a fold in a sock that you get the urge to fix.
Causes
Morton’s neuroma tends to occur when you have pressure placed on one of the nerves near your toes. It could also stem from an injury to one of these nerves. Certain activities or the footwear you choose can contribute to Morton’s neuroma. For instance, if you wear high-heeled shoes or shoes that are too tight or don’t fit properly, it can increase the pressure on both the ball of your foot and toes.
Jogging or running puts repetitive stress on your feet. The trauma may play a role in the onset of Morton’s neuroma. Your risk for this condition also increases if you participate in a sport that requires you to wear tight shoes, such as rock climbing or skiing. The footwear can place pressure on your toes, which affects the nerves.
A foot deformity like a hammertoe, flatfoot, or bunions can also increase your risk. Your chances could also increase if you have high arches.
Diagnostic Process
If your doctor suspects you have Morton’s neuroma or in determining the cause of your foot pain or discomfort, you’ll need to undergo certain testing. They will start the process by asking you questions about your symptoms, followed by a physical examination of your foot. Next, your practitioner will request you undergo an X-ray or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to take a look inside the foot.
Based on a review of your symptoms and the examination, as well as the results of the diagnostic testing, your doctor will determine if you have Morton’s neuroma.
Treatment
If you have a mild case of Morton’s neuroma, your doctor may recommend orthotics or footpads to support your foot and relieve pressure on the affected area. Your foot doctor may recommend you take an over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication like ibuprofen as needed to decrease swelling and pain. Your doctor will advise you on how to choose the right shoe for your condition. In addition, your podiatrist may also recommend you use ice to combat inflammation.
If this isn’t enough, your doctor may recommend steroid injections, decompression surgery to relieve pressure on the nerve, or surgery to remove the damaged nerve.
Choose a Foot Specialist in San Antonio, TX
If you suspect you may have Morton’s neuroma, the best thing to do is to see an experienced podiatrist for a diagnosis and treatment. If you are in need of a qualified and talented podiatrist for your foot care needs, look no further than The Podiatry Group of South Texas. We have a team of podiatrists who are ready to provide you relief from any podiatric condition or injury you may have.
Book an appointment with The Podiatry Group of South Texas, serving various locations throughout Southern Texas, if you a pain in your foot that disrupts your daily activities. We can help you overcome your pain, and it starts with you contacting one of our locations.
