Morton's Neuroma (Mortons Neuroma) - Causes And Morton's Neuroma Treatment

When the lateral plantar nerve and the medial plantar nerve combine together, they increase in diameter and eventually take up a larger space within the feet. Additionally, a deep metatarsal ligament can be found above these nerves. This ligament is responsible for holding all the metatarsal bones along the foot area and consequently becomes the nerves' ceiling compartment. As a person takes a step, the force of the step causes a push towards the enlarged nerve while the ligament pushes down. The combination of pushes compresses the nerve within a limited space and then causes pain for the person.

There's no specific reason yet which can explain why nerves become compressed. Some sources say that flat feet can be a primary cause. In addition, wearing high heels can create a lateral form of compression as the weight of the body becomes transferred entirely onto the toes. Therefore, the nerves of the toes squeeze together in an attempt to take on all of the extra weight and then become enlarged enough to elicit pain.

It is also easy to determine Morton's neuroma through the following symptoms:
- pain experienced between the fourth and the third toes
- pain on the toes upon carrying heavy objects
- a shooting pain felt all over the toe area
- a burning sensation and even numbness of the toes

In diagnosing Morton's neuroma, an MRI or Magnetic Resonance Imaging scan is often very helpful. This is because the soft tissues are the primarily affected area. Also, an MRI scan helps ensure that there are no possible tumors already affecting the area. The MRI results will also help the podiatrist decide if the neuroma is manageable enough to be taken cared of using conservative measures.

In addition, a visit to the podiatrist is also advised. The podiatrist diagnoses the disorder by palpating the area so that pain can be elicited as the toes are squeezed on the sides. Then, the podiatrist will try to feel how severe the neuroma is by feeling the third interspace through the use of the thumb. A combination of palpating and squeezing procedure rules out any other syndrome and also takes in anything which can make out a positive Mulder's sign. This is characterized by an audible clicking on the foot area which is also a way to tell if there is Morton's neuroma.

After this physical examination, an X-ray is also scheduled to mark off any signs of fracture. The X-ray is also used for examining the current bone and joint conditions so that any signs of arthritis can be likewise ruled out.

The usual treatment done for Morton's neuroma is therapy. Certain padding as well as taping measures is being done to decrease the occurrence of neuroma. For patients with flat feet, a support to make the arch more obvious is also being done.

Another form of treatment is called alcohol sclerosing injection. The treatment is done by injecting a small alcohol amount within the area of concern so that the nerve will harden and the pain will then be relieved. The injection is usually given for 7 to 10 days.