Morton’s neuroma may also be known as Morton’s metatarsalgia or interdigital neuroma and is a condition that can occur in one foot or both feet. Fibrous tissue develops around the nerve, which becomes irritated and compressed. It often affects the nerve between the third and fourth toes and sometimes the second and third toes.
Morton’s neuroma is named after An American Surgeon called Thomas George Morton (1835 – 1903) who was renowned for treating injured soldiers for the Union during the American civil war.
Why does Morton’s neuroma occur? Morton's Neuroma can present in anyone but commonly affects middle aged woman. This may be due to a variety of reasons such as women tending to wear high-heeled shoes that can put pressure on the feet. Keen runners are also more prone, possibly because of the increased pressure on the toes that occurs when running. Invasive surgical intervention is sometimes recommended to treat the condition, but Shockwave therapy has been shown to be an effective alternative, reducing pain, and avoiding surgery.
Patients with Morton’s neuroma may experience a tingling sensation in the space between their toes, which becomes more severe over time, eventually developing into a sharp shooting or burning pain in the ball of their foot or at the base of their toes. There may also be some numbness in your toes.
The pain often becomes increasingly uncomfortable when walking and wearing shoes. It might feel like you have a small stone in your shoe
How do you diagnose Morton’s neuroma?
Firstly, we assess the signs and symptoms.
X-rays. Your doctor is likely to order X-rays of your foot to rule out other causes of your pain — such as a stress fracture.
Ultrasound is particularly good at revealing soft tissue abnormalities, such as neuromas.
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Using radio waves and a strong magnetic field, an MRI also is good at visualizing soft tissues. But it's an expensive test and often indicates neuromas in people who have no symptoms.
Our specialists provide a fast diagnosis and easy access to appointments.
Should you have shockwave therapy for Morton's Neuroma?
Various evidence suggests that shockwave therapy is an effective non-invasive treatment for Morton's Neuroma. Shockwaves induce microtrauma, which stimulates the healing process by attracting blood vessels and nutrients to the neuroma and reducing the inflammation to the irritated nerve. Treatment often takes longer with between 3 -5 session required (once weekly) We recommend a high-energy focussed shockwave therapy for the best results.
Recommended treatments for Calcific Shoulder
Extracorporeal shockwave therapy (non-invasive and preferred method of treatment)
Steroid injections
Medication
Orthotics
Physiotherapy
Surgery
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