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Morton’s neuroma may be a benign condition of the foot, but it is painful and can harm the ball of the foot. It is found in the ball of the foot between the metatarsal bones.
This condition is going to happen when the tissue around a nerve starts to thicken due to being irritated or compressed and you will often find it between the third and fourth toe. Neuromas can be painful and may make it hard to walk around and move the way that you would like.
How do you know that you have Morton’s Neuroma and when is it time to get some of the treatment that you need? Read below to find out some of the signs that you can look for when it comes to having Morton’s Neuroma.
10 Signs You May Have Morton’s Neuroma
There are a lot of different signs and symptoms of Morton’s Neuroma and each patient is going to experience it in a slightly different manner based on when it starts and how well they take care of it. But there are a few common signs that you can pay attention to.
Some of the most common signs that you have Morton’s Neuroma in your feet include:
#1 Numb Sensation in the Foot
One of the first signs that you can look for to determine whether you have this condition is a number or a tingling sensation in the foot. This can show up either in the ball of the foot or the toes. It can happen when you have sat still for a long time and then got up to move or after some tough exercise.
#2 Burning Discomfort in Your Foot
Many patients will notice that they have burning or shooting pain in the ball or the toes of the foot. This can come and go for some patients, but it is also possible that the pain will stick around and can bother you most of the time, which is going to make it difficult to be mobile and do the movements you want.
#3 A Bulge in the Foot
Take a moment to touch your foot and see if anything unusual is there at the time. If you notice that there is some kind of bulge, even if it is a small bulge, or there is some kind of fullness between the toes, then this is a sign that the nerve is growing and inflamed and that you have Morton’s Neuroma.
#4 Your Sleepy Toes Indicate Morton's Neuroma
You may notice on occasion that your toes are asleep when you sit in an awkward position or you spend some time on the floor. But if this tends to happen, even when you are moving and standing, it is a sign that something else is going on with your feet. If you notice that the toes are asleep quite a bit, then you may need to consider getting them checked for this condition.
#5 The Sensation of Walking on a Crumpled Sock
Have you ever tried to walk around in a shoe where the sock moved around and started to crumple under your foot? This can be annoying and makes it difficult to be comfortable when you are trying to walk for a long period of time.
Some patients will notice that they have a feeling just like this when they have Morton’s Neuroma. If you feel like you are walking around with a crumpled or wrinkled sock and your sock is fine, or you are not wearing a sock at all, then this is a sign that you have a condition and need some work.
#6 Morton's Neuroma is Characterized by Cramping Toes
Another sign that you can look for is cramping toes. This is a concern when you are walking around compared to when you are sitting still.
Some people may notice that their toes will start to click when they walk as well. This could be a sign that something is wrong with the foot and the nerves near the toes and could possibly be Morton’s Neuroma.
#7 Wanting to Massage the Foot
When our feet get worn out and sore, we often want to take off our shoes and rub them a little bit to try and help. Doing this on occasion is not a big deal, especially if you are wearing new shoes or have a long day on your feet, but if you start to do it all the time with regular activity, then the pain could be from Morton’s Neuroma as well. You should have the condition checked.
#8 Pain That Gets Worse When You Have Morton's Neuroma
Over time, your Morton’s Neuroma is going to get worse as you walk around. The pain can start to bother you and you may not be able to do some of the same activities that you did before. Many patients will curtail some of their activities or refuse to do some activities because their feet are tired and the pain is too much for them to handle.
In addition, you may notice that the pain is getting worse as time goes on. You may have a light pain that only shows up on occasion in the beginning. The longer that you go without a good treatment plan and help, the worse the pain will get. And it is possible that you will have to stop moving around as much too.
#9 Pain When Wearing Shoes
Some patients will find that the pain they have is going to get worse when they apply pressure to the area or they are wearing shoes. You should be able to massage the area of the foot when it is painful and uncomfortable and it should feel better.
If you put pressure on it, then the pain is going to get worse. If you notice it is worse while wearing shoes, then that can be bad too.
#10 Morton's Neuroma Spreads to Toes
Morton’s Neuroma is often going to appear in the third and fourth toe of your foot. There are some exceptions to this. However, you may notice that the toes, whichever ones they may be, that are closest to the pain will start to spread apart like they are making room for the nerve that is damaged and can’t fit well.
You may be able to look down on the toes and see that they are spreading apart and not as close together as they were in the past. You could also have a problem with your shoes not fitting well because they need more space in order to fit well.
Causes of Morton's Neuroma:
It's important to note that while these factors can increase the risk of Morton's neuroma, they do not necessarily cause the condition. It's a good idea to see a doctor if you are experiencing persistent foot pain, as early treatment can help prevent the condition from worsening and reduce the risk of long-term complications. There are several potential causes of the disorder, including:
- Wearing high heels or tight shoes: High heels or tight shoes can put excess pressure on the toes and ball of the foot, which can lead to the development of Morton's neuroma. When the toes are squeezed together in a tight space, it can cause the tissue surrounding the nerves in the foot to become thick and inflamed, leading to pain and discomfort. Women are more likely to develop Morton's neuroma than men, possibly due to the fact that they are more likely to wear high heels and tight shoes.
- Certain underlying foot conditions, such as flat feet or bunions, can increase the risk of developing Morton's neuroma. Flat feet, in particular, can cause excess pressure on the toes and ball of the foot, leading to the development of the condition. Bunions, on the other hand, can cause the toes to become misaligned and squeeze together, which can also lead to the development of Morton's neuroma.
- The risk of Morton's neuroma increases with age, as the feet tend to flatten and widen as we get older, which can put extra pressure on the nerves in the foot.
- Activities that involve repetitive stress or trauma to the foot, such as running or playing high-impact sports, can also increase the risk of Morton's neuroma.
How Can I Exercise If I Have Morton's Neuroma?
Morton's neuroma, that pesky nerve irritation between your toes, can bring sharp pain and a burning sensation. While treatment options vary, incorporating specific exercises into your routine can significantly improve symptoms and promote healing. Here are a few effective exercises to manage Morton's neuroma:
Stretching for Relief:
- Toe Spreads: Sit comfortably and gently spread your toes apart as wide as possible. Hold for 10-15 seconds, then relax. Repeat 10-15 times. This stretches the muscles and ligaments in the forefoot, easing tension around the irritated nerve.
- Plantar Fascia Stretch: Using a towel or strap, loop it around the base of your toes while seated. Pull the toes gently towards you, feeling a stretch along the arch of your foot. Hold for 30 seconds, then relax. Repeat 3-5 times. This stretch loosens the plantar fascia, a band of tissue that can contribute to nerve compression.
Strengthening for Stability:
- Marble Pick-Up: Scatter a few marbles on the floor. Sit down and use your toes to pick up the marbles, one by one, placing them in a cup or bowl. This strengthens the smaller muscles in your foot, improving stability and reducing pressure on the nerve.
- Calf Raises: Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart. Rise up onto your toes, then slowly lower back down. Repeat 10-15 times. Strong calf muscles help absorb shock, reducing stress on your feet.
Remember:
- Start Slowly: Begin with gentle exercises and gradually increase repetitions and duration as tolerated.
- Listen to Your Body: Pain is a sign to stop. If you experience discomfort, ease up or modify the exercise.
- Consistency is Key: Regular exercise is crucial for long-term benefits. Aim to perform these exercises daily or every other day.
These exercises can be a valuable tool in managing Morton's neuroma. However, it's important to consult a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and customized treatment plan. They can advise on the most suitable exercises for your specific condition and recommend additional support options like orthotics or physical therapy.
What Else Can I Do About My Morton's Neuroma?
Custom orthotics can be helpful for Morton's neuroma, as they can help alleviate pressure on the affected nerves and prevent the condition from worsening. Orthotics are special inserts that are designed to fit your feet specifically and provide support and stability to your arch and heel.
Custom orthotics can be used to treat Morton's neuroma by redistributing weight and reducing pressure on the ball of the foot. They also provide extra cushioning and support to the arch and heel.
Your doctor or a podiatrist can help you determine the best type of orthotic for your needs. They may also recommend using orthotics in combination with other treatments, such as rest, ice, and over-the-counter pain medications.
In more severe cases, your doctor may recommend corticosteroid injections or surgery to remove the inflamed tissue. Wearing proper footwear and using inserts or orthotics, however, are the least invasive options to help alleviate pressure on the affected nerves and prevent the condition from worsening.
It's important to note that while custom orthotics can be helpful for Morton's neuroma, they are not a cure-all and may not be effective for everyone. It's always a good idea to discuss all treatment options with your doctor and follow their recommendations for care.
Taking Care of Your Morton’s Neuroma
Morton's neuroma, that burning pain between your toes, can disrupt your daily routine. But fear not! Here are some effective home care strategies to manage your Morton's neuroma and get you back on your feet:
Rest and Relief:
- Reduce Activity: Take a break from activities that aggravate the pain. Opt for low-impact exercises like swimming or cycling instead of running or high-impact sports.
- Ice It Up: Apply ice packs to the affected area for 15-20 minutes at a time, several times a day. Wrap the ice pack in a thin towel to prevent skin irritation. The cold numbs the area and reduces inflammation.
- Elevate When Possible: When resting, elevate your foot above your heart to minimize swelling and discomfort.
Footwear Matters:
- Ditch the Narrow Shoes: Tight-fitting shoes and high heels squeeze your toes together, worsening nerve compression. Opt for wider toe box shoes that allow your toes to spread naturally.
- Cushioning is Key: Invest in cushioned insoles or arch supports that distribute pressure evenly across your foot, reducing stress on the nerve.
- Consider Metatarsal Pads: These gel or foam pads placed under the ball of your foot can help absorb shock and take pressure off the irritated nerve.
Lifestyle Tweaks:
- Maintain a Healthy Weight: Excess weight puts extra strain on your feet, including the nerves. Losing weight can significantly improve your symptoms.
- Anti-Inflammatory Power: Consider incorporating anti-inflammatory foods like fruits, vegetables, and fish into your diet. You can also consult your doctor about over-the-counter pain relievers.
- Stretching and Strengthening: Gentle stretches and toe-strengthening exercises can improve flexibility and stability, reducing pressure on the nerve (see a healthcare professional for guidance).
Remember, consistency is key. By implementing these home care strategies regularly, you can effectively manage your Morton's neuroma and experience significant pain relief. However, if your symptoms persist or worsen, consult a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and personalized treatment plan.
Bilt Labs Custom Orthotics
Morton's neuroma, a pinched nerve in the ball of your foot, can bring a burning, sharp pain that disrupts your daily life. While treatment options vary, incorporating Bilt Labs custom orthotics into your routine can be a game-changer in managing this condition. Here's how these personalized insoles can provide relief:
Targeted Support for Pressure Relief:
Unlike generic insoles, Bilt Labs orthotics are crafted specifically for your feet. Through a personalized fitting process, they create orthotics that address your unique biomechanics and pressure points. This targeted support plays a vital role in managing Morton's neuroma by:
- Redistributing Pressure: The custom design helps spread pressure away from the irritated nerve and towards other areas of the foot. This reduces the pinching sensation and overall discomfort.
- Accommodating the Forefoot: Bilt Labs orthotics can be designed with a metatarsal pad, a specific feature that elevates and cushions the area beneath the ball of your foot. This further alleviates pressure on the nerve and provides a more comfortable walking experience.
Promoting Stability and Alignment:
Morton's neuroma can sometimes be caused by improper foot mechanics. Bilt Labs orthotics can help by:
- Correcting Gait Abnormalities: By promoting proper foot alignment and correcting imbalances, they can prevent excessive stress on the nerve during walking or running.
- Enhancing Stability: The custom design provides targeted support that improves balance and stability. This reduces the risk of further irritation to the nerve and allows for a more confident gait.
Additional Benefits:
Bilt Labs orthotics offer additional advantages beyond pressure relief and stability:
- Shock Absorption: The use of high-quality materials can help absorb shock with each step, further protecting the irritated nerve.
- Improved Comfort: The custom fit provides overall better foot comfort, reducing pain and fatigue throughout the day.
By incorporating Bilt Labs custom orthotics into your Morton's neuroma management plan, you can experience significant pain relief, improved stability, and a more comfortable walking experience. Remember, consulting a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and personalized treatment plan is crucial. Bilt Labs orthotics can be a valuable tool in your journey towards managing Morton's neuroma and getting back on your feet pain-free.
Conclusion
In conclusion, recognizing the early signs of Morton's neuroma is crucial for prompt treatment and preventing further discomfort. If you experience any of the symptoms mentioned, especially a burning or tingling sensation between your toes, don't hesitate to consult a healthcare professional. Early diagnosis and a combination of home remedies, lifestyle adjustments, and potentially Bilt Labs custom orthotics can effectively manage Morton's neuroma and get you back to enjoying pain-free steps. Take our free quiz today to find out which orthotic type is best for your feet.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is intended for general informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional before making any decisions about your health. If you have any questions about your health or are experiencing any medical problems, please contact your doctor or other healthcare provider immediately. Do not delay seeking medical attention based on the information provided in this article.
