DISCUSSION ON MORTON’S NEUROMA
Our feet are a complex system of 28 bones, 33 joints and 100 plus muscles in each foot. Such is the structure of each foot to keep us humans vertical.
Without proper shoe structure and support, the problem of Morton’s Neuroma increase. Without proper weight distribution, thickening of the outer coating of tissue surrounds the nerve between the toes thickens. Such thickening results when two bones repeatedly rub together, usually between the third and fourth toes. Occasionally the irritation can affect in between the second and third toes.
Nerve problems can be exacerbated by diabetes and/or alcoholism. Indeed, other risk factors considered are bunions, hammertoes and arch abnormalities. Other mitigating circumstances are high impact athletics like running, track and field. Such repetitiveness can cause trauma to the feet.
Please refer to the schematic diagram of the foot illustrating the location of Morton’s neuroma occurring in the location between the third and fourth toes.
DIAGRAM OF MORTON’S NEUROMA
Treatment options for Morton’s Neuroma really is correlation of degrees in pain and symptoms. Grading symptoms is in relation to the following:
- Structured shoes with emphasis to high profile lateral arch support, pronounced metatarsal support. Must include good counter support, lasting board and shank. Perhaps suggest a moderate rocker as well. Hence keep you centered and weight transferred off the ball of foot.
- Custom made orthotics, are always an option. However, I am of the opinion that proper footwear will negate the need for orthotics.
- Anti-inflammatory medications.
- Surgery by cutting nearby strictures to remove the nerve causing pain. However, a cautionary tale, the damaged nerve can grow back.
The best option is well-structured footwear that fits properly.