Morton’s neuroma has recently become a frequently researched topic, as it is a disorder that is particularly aggravated by activities such as standing and walking for long periods of time. Although the exact cause of this condition is not known, it is thought to develop as a result of pressure and irritation on the nerve between the toes. Morton’s neuroma is more common in people with cupped feet or flat feet and in activities that put repetitive stress on the feet, such as running or jumping.
What is Morton’s neuroma?
When asked “What does Morton’s neuroma mean?”, Morton’s neuroma, first described by TG Morton in 1876, usually originates from the nerve between the 3rd and 4th metatarsal bones in the foot. This nerve provides sensation to the toes on the sole of the foot and can often become compressed due to pressure from the foot structure, causing this discomfort.
Morton’s neuroma is more common in individuals between the ages of 40 and 60, and is eight times more common in women than in men. The disease most commonly occurs between the 2nd and 3rd or 3rd and 4th metatarsals. Although it is associated with wearing high heels or tight shoes, removing shoes and massaging the feet usually provides relief.
What are the symptoms of Morton Neuroma?
Morton’s neuroma is a disorder that develops as a result of compression of the nerves between the toes. Morton’s neuroma symptoms are as follows:
- Pain: A burning pain is felt between the metatarsals, especially radiating to the toes. Patients often report feeling as if they are walking barefoot on stones. Pain is relieved at rest but increases with activity, especially wearing tight or high-heeled shoes. Night pain is rare.
- Numbness: There may be an uncomfortable numbness and loss of feeling in the affected fingers.
These symptoms are typical signs of Morton’s Neuroma.
How is Morton’s neuroma treated?
Surgery in the treatment of Morton’s neuroma is performed through a small incision in the transverse ligament region between the 3rd and 4th metatarsal bones. In this procedure, the transverse ligament is cut to release the nerve or remove the thickened nerve segment. Nonsurgical treatment methods can only relieve symptoms in 15-20% of patients, and the main purpose of these methods is to reduce pressure on the nerve.
Wearing wide-toed, flat shoes or restricting toe movement with tight, rigid insoles may help reduce symptoms. Injections of steroids into the lesion and oral painkillers may provide temporary relief. However, insoles, pads, and orthotics have not been shown to be of significant benefit.