June 19, 2011. Paul Hixon
credit: dearanxietyIf you have a painful bump on the bottom of your foot between your toes, you may have a Morton’s neuroma. Morton’s neuroma is an abnormality of the common digital nerve that occurs due to repetitive irritation of the nerve. The patient will often notice a small bump or pain located between the toes (most commonly the third and fourth toes).
Patients with this abnormality typically complain of sharp, burning pain in the ball of the foot and toes. The toes may sometimes fell numb. Pain is not usually continuous and can sometimes be relieved by foot massage.
Tight, high heeled shoes are often to blame for this foot problem. Continued use of improper footwear can aggravate the neuroma, increasing pain and worsening numbness. Patients with Morton’s neuroma should consider wearing orthopedic shoes to help reduce pressure on the foot and improve pain. Orthopedic shoes have a wide toe area, low heel and good cushioning that reduces pressure on the neuroma. They are available in a range of fashionable styles for both men and women.
Diagnosis of Morton’s neuroma is usually made by a clinical exam. Special tests such as x-rays, CT scans or MRI are not typically required to make this diagnosis. If the diagnosis is not clear, the physician may recommend special testing to rule out more serious conditions.
Treatment of the deformity often consists of sending the patient to physical therapy and switching to appropriate footwear with a special insert. Rarely, surgical correction of the neuroma is indicated. This typically is done if the patient has a poor response to conservative treatments.
If you suspect that you have a Morton’s neuroma, you should see your physician for an evaluation. If you have other health problems, such as poor circulation or an abnormal A1C blood test, you should not delay evaluation because you may be at high risk for foot complications
Updated June 19, 2011. Published June 2, 2011. Paul Hixon
