Frequently Asked Questions
What are the risks of Mortons neuroma surgery?
The risks of Morton's neuroma surgery include infection, nerve damage, persistent pain, and recurrence of the neuroma. Patients may also experience scarring, numbness, and stiffness in the affected foot.
Is Mortons neuroma more common in women or men?
Morton's neuroma is more common in women. Women are up to 10 times more likely to develop this condition than men, likely due to factors such as the shape and structure of the foot, and the use of high-heeled or narrow shoes.
Can Mortons neuroma cause numbness in the foot?
Yes, Morton's neuroma can cause numbness in the foot. The condition involves a thickening of the tissue around a nerve, which can lead to numbness or tingling sensations in the affected toes.
What are the common causes of Mortons neuroma?
The common causes of Morton's neuroma include wearing high-heeled or tight-fitting shoes, high-impact activities, trauma or injury to the foot, and conditions that increase pressure on the nerve, such as bunions or hammertoes.
Can Mortons neuroma be caused by running?
Yes, running can be a contributing factor in the development of Morton's neuroma. The repetitive stress and impact from running can irritate the nerve and lead to the formation of this painful foot condition.
Are cortisone injections effective for Mortons neuroma?
Cortisone injections can be an effective treatment for Morton's neuroma, as they can help reduce inflammation and pain associated with the condition. However, the effectiveness may vary depending on the individual case.
What are the symptoms of Mortons neuroma in the foot?
The symptoms of Morton's neuroma in the foot typically include a sharp, burning pain between the toes, numbness or tingling in the toes, and a feeling of a lump or thickness in the ball of the foot.
Can Mortons neuroma be caused by high heels?
Yes, wearing high heels can contribute to the development of Morton's neuroma. The elevated heel and narrow toe box of high heels can put pressure on the nerves between the toes, leading to the symptoms of Morton's neuroma.
Can Mortons neuroma be treated with orthotics?
Yes, Morton's neuroma can often be treated with orthotics. Orthotic devices can help reduce the pressure and irritation on the affected nerve, providing relief and preventing the condition from worsening.
Can Mortons neuroma be treated without surgery?
Yes, Morton's neuroma can often be treated without surgery. Conservative treatment options such as changes in footwear, use of orthotics, and corticosteroid injections may alleviate the symptoms of this condition and help patients avoid surgical intervention.
How is Mortons neuroma diagnosed by a doctor?
Morton's neuroma is typically diagnosed by a doctor through a physical examination, including palpation of the affected area and assessment of symptoms. The doctor may also order imaging tests, such as an X-ray or MRI, to confirm the diagnosis.
What is the recovery time for Mortons neuroma surgery?
The recovery time for Morton's neuroma surgery typically ranges from 4 to 12 weeks, depending on the complexity of the procedure and the individual's healing process. Patients may require crutches or a surgical shoe during the initial recovery period.
What are the best shoes for people with Mortons neuroma?
The best shoes for people with Morton's neuroma are those with a wide and deep toe box, good arch support, and a cushioned sole. These features help reduce pressure on the affected nerve and alleviate symptoms.
What is the best way to prevent Mortons neuroma?
The best way to prevent Morton's neuroma is to wear properly fitted, supportive shoes with a wide toe box, avoid high heels, and use custom orthotics or metatarsal pads to reduce pressure on the affected nerve.
Can Mortons neuroma be treated with acupuncture?
While acupuncture may provide some relief for Morton's neuroma, it is not considered a primary treatment. The most effective treatments typically involve changes in footwear, orthotic devices, and steroid injections as recommended by a podiatrist.
Are Mortons neuroma and plantar fasciitis related?
Morton's neuroma and plantar fasciitis are distinct conditions that can affect the foot, but they are not directly related. Morton's neuroma is a thickening of the nerve between the toes, while plantar fasciitis is inflammation of the fibrous band on the bottom of the foot.
Is Mortons neuroma more common in older adults?
Morton's neuroma is more common in older adults, as the condition often develops due to repetitive stress on the foot over time.
Can Mortons neuroma be cured with physical therapy?
While physical therapy can help manage the symptoms of Morton's neuroma, it is generally not considered a cure. Depending on the severity, other treatments such as custom orthotics, injections, or surgery may be required to fully address the condition.
