MORTON NEUROMA

Morton’s neuroma refers to a nerve injury between the toes, usually the third and fourth toes, which causes pain and thickening of the nerve tissue. Compression or chronic irritation of this inter-digital nerve is the main cause of Morton’s Neuroma. Excess pressure is exerted on the nerves due to narrowing of the gap between the toe bones causing thickening of the nerve tissue from scar tissue formation. This causes swelling of the nerve and the surrounding tissue.

Morton’s neuroma is more common in women than in men. The associated symptoms include:

• Burning pain in the ball of the foot (may also radiate to the toes)
• Numbness in the affected toes
• Inability to walk

Wearing high-heeled or narrow shoes squeezes the toe bones and worsens these symptoms.

Your doctor can diagnose Morton’s Neuroma by examining your foot. Palpation of the foot between the toes may reveal a thickened and tender area. A foot x-ray may be ordered to rule out other bone disorders.