Morton's Neuroma

Prevention and Treatment of Morton’s Neuroma

The simplest way to prevent Morton's neuromas is to protect the feet and skin from ill-fitting shoes. Make sure your shoes or boots have sufficient cushioning and room in the toe box so that excessive pressure is not exerted on the forefoot and the toes are not compressed together.

To help ensure your feet are optimally protected, IPFH suggests wearing properly selected and fitted, as part of an integrated approach, padded socks with shoes with non-slip outsoles and any inserts or orthotics prescribed or recommended by a doctor or foot health professional.

Your doctor may recommend conservative treatment, such as the following:

  •     Padding for the metatarsal arch area to reduce pressure on the foot and on the nerve during weight-bearing activities.
  •     Icing to help reduce pain and swelling.
  •     Orthotics to provide reduced pressure and support on the area.
  •     Metatarsal pads to help spread the forefoot and relieve pressure on the nerve.

If you are in pain, consider resting and eliminating activities such as running and racquet sports. Anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs such as ibuprofen), taken under medical supervision to avoid side effects, also can help reduce pain and inflammation.

If conservative treatments don’t help, your doctor may recommend corticosteroid injections and/or surgery to remove the neuroma. Permanent changes in footwear may be required (for example, wearing padded socks with shoes with wider toe boxes and not wearing pointed shoes or high heels) to help ensure the condition does not return.
 

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