Morton’s neuroma is a small lump in the floor of the foot that causes discomfort when walking; this small piece forms around the plantar nerve to the point where it divides, causing a pain located between the 3rd and 4th finger when the person walks, squats, climbs stairs or races, for example.
This injury is most common in women over the age of 40, who should wear high pointed-toed heels, and in people who perform physical activity, especially running. The cause of this lump in the foot cannot always be identified, but in all cases, too much pressure is needed in place, such as wearing high-heeled shoes, hitting the sore area, or hitting the sore area. Habit of running in the street or on the belt, since these situations generate microtraumasm repeatedly, causing inflammation and the formation of the neuroma, which is thickening of the plantar nerve.
- Morton’s neuroma can be identified by the orthopedist or physical therapist when the person shows the following signs and symptoms:.
For the diagnosis, it is recommended to palpate the area looking for a small lump between the fingers, and when pressing it, the person feels pain, numbness or a sensation of shock, and also, the movement of the neuroma is obvious, being enough to close the diagnosis, but Your doctor or physical therapist may also order an ultrasound or MRI. , to rule out other changes in the feet and identify a neuroma smaller than 5 mm.
Treatment of Morton’s neuroma begins with the use of comfortable shoes, without heels and with space to keep your fingers apart, such as a shoe or sneakers, for example, which is usually enough to reduce pain and discomfort, but your doctor may indicate an infiltration of corticosteroids, alcohol or phenol, at the site to relieve pain.
In addition, the physical therapist may indicate the use of a specific insole for better foot support within the footwear and physiotherapy sessions to lengthen plantar apotheosis, toes and the use of equipment such as ultrasound, microcurrents or a laser for example. Surgery may be indicated to remove the neuroma, especially when the person is physically active or an athlete and has not been able to cure the neuroma with previous options.