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Morton Neuroma

In this page I want to explain what is meant by the terms "Morton's neuroma" and discuss which treatments are best and why.  I have been a Podiatric Surgeon for nearly twenty five years and in this time I have observed many different treatments come and go for many foot problems.  What's important is providing the right treatment for patients and not being sucked in by the latest "fad".  Patients deserve to be given evidenced based and tried & tested treatments.   

WHAT IS A MORTON'S TYPE NEUROMA?

A Morton's neuroma is an enlarged nerve in the ball of the foot.  It is not a tumour as such and they are not malignant.  

 

WHAT CAUSES A MORTON'S NEUROMA?

We believe that these lesions are caused by repeated minor trauma which leads to fibrosis / scarring of the nerves in the sole of the foot.  We know this because of the careful study of the neuromas removed and examined under the microscope.

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WHAT ARE THE COMMON SYMPTOMS?

There are some very classical symptoms of Morton's neuroma which can aid the diagnosis.  These include:

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  • Forefoot pain

  • Numbness / tingling sometimes burning 

  • Shooting pains into the toes

  • Cramping

  • Feeling like you need to remove your shoes and massage your foot

  • Feeling like there is bit of gristle in your foot when you walk

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WHAT WILL HAPPEN DURING MY APPOINTMENT?

The very first thing that needs to happen is for the diagnosis to be confirmed and this is done through a very detailed history and clinical examination.  Following this you may be sent for an ultrasound or MRI scan of your foot. Mr Metcalfe will also carefully assess the biomechanics of your feet to determine if there are predisposing risk factors.

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WHAT ARE THE MOST EFFECTIVE TREATMENTS?

There are a range of treatment options for Morton's type neuroma pain and Mr Metcalfe will talk you through the treatment options which are right for you.  These might include:

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WHAT DOES A MORTON'S NEUROMA LOOK LIKE?

This is a picture of a Morton's neuroma Mr Metcalfe has remvoed taken during the operation.

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