Your podiatrist can diagnose and treat several conditions that affect your feet, including a condition known as Morton’s neuroma.

A neuroma refers to the thickening of nerve tissue. Morton's neuroma affects the ball of the foot. It’s usually caused by an irritation in the nerve between the 3rd and 4th toe. As a result, you may experience pain, with a burning, tingling, or numbness, when walking.

How does Morton’s Neuroma develop?

While there isn’t any known cause, some factors may increase your risk for Morton’s neuroma. These include:

• Trauma or injury to the foot that damages the nerve
• Improper footwear, like narrow-toed shoes and high heels that increase pressure on the vulnerable areas
• Repetitive stress to the feet due to repeated physical activities or exercise
• Foot deformities, like a high arch or flat foot, causing foot instability

A common recommendation by podiatrists is to wear comfortable shoes with a wide toe box. Wear athletic shoes for any physical activity.

How can Morton’s Neuroma be treated?

The first thing is to get shoes that allow your toes lots of room and are easily adjustable. The soles of the shoes should be shock-absorbent and thick to prevent additional pressure on the feet. Your podiatrist may ask you to wear custom orthotics. Don’t forget to pay attention to your feet and the pain levels. If your Morton’s neuroma is acting up, take a break,take off your shoe and massage the area. Icing is a good idea.

Talking to Your Podiatrist

Consult your podiatrist as soon as you start experiencing foot problems. Morton’s neuroma may worsen without treatment. Diagnosing and treating the neuroma early on can help to avoid surgery as a treatment for your feet.

In the early stages of Morton’s neuroma, changing your shoes may relieve your symptoms. Your podiatrist’s will help to relieve pressure on the affected area.

After a physical examination and reviewing your X-rays, your podiatrists will createa customized treatment plan that works for you.

Here are a few different options that can help you –

• Taping and padding: A special type of tape and bandages may be placed on the bottom of the foot. This will relieve your symptoms.
• Custom Orthotics: These are different from over-the-counter shoe inserts. They are custom-made, especially for your foot size and condition.
• Medication: Steroid injections and anti-inflammatory drugs can help to reduce the pain and inflammation in the foot.
• In severe cases, surgery may be needed. The procedure can be done on an outpatient basis, where the injured nerve is removed and recovery takes a few weeks.

If you are looking for the best foot and ankle specialist in Phoenix, AZ, call Oasis Foot and Ankle Center at 602-993-2700 right away.