person sitting down holding a painful footIf you're feeling a sharp pain between your third and fourth toes you may have developed a foot condition called Morton's Neuroma. What's that you wonder? It's a problem caused by any irritation which leads to thickening of tissue surrounding the nerve that travels to the third and fourth toes.

A research study in 2015 at the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh found that Morton's neuroma climbed by 115% percent (more than doubled) in women between 40 and 69 in the past 10 years. Women who wore high heels greater than 2 inches were at greater risk.

While high heels are often the culprit--neuromas are 8-10 times more likely to develop in women than men--avoiding heels isn't the only way to prevent this condition. Men and women who wear shoes that are too tight or have a narrow toe box or participate in sports activities such as running are also more likely to develop this painful condition.

But no need to worry. At the Foot and Ankle Center of Lake City, we've helped men and women resolve this problem hundreds of times.

Here are 9 ways to treat Morton's Neuroma.

1. Use Ice

Start by using ice to relieve the pain and swelling. We recommend 20 minutes on and 20 minutes off a couple of times a day.

2. Ball of Foot Pad or Metatarsal Pad

A ball of foot pad or metatarsal pad can provide the support the foot needs to prevent the metatarsals or base of your toes from becoming cramped. This can help prevent the pinching of nerves between the bones.

3. Orthotics

When metatarsal pads are insufficient, custom orthotics are used to more precisely support the metatarsals. A custom metatarsal pad is often incorporated into the orthotics.

4. Roomier shoes

If your shoes are squeezing your feet, purchase shoes with a wider toe box. Be sure you get the proper fit for running shoes as well dress shoes. The website, Barking Dog Shoes, has many fashionable options. 

5. Eliminate or limit your high heel use

As mentioned above, high heel wear can cause Morton's Neuroma. It can also continue to make it worse. As much as possible wear heels one inch or less or greatly limit your high heel use. 

6. Change how you lace your shoes

Changing how you lace your shoes can help relieve the pain of Morton's neuroma. Learn how in this video.

7. Alcohol injections

Our office uses guided alcohol injections to help relieve neuroma pain.

8. MLS laser therapy

MLS laser is a cold laser that is very effective in reducing the pain and inflammation in Morton's neuroma. This therapy uses dual wavelengths of infrared light to penetrate deep into the tissue and stimulate regeneration at the cellular level. 

9. Surgery

Finally surgery is an option, but it doesn't work 100% of the time. 

Need Relief from Morton's Neuroma in Seattle, Washington? Request an Appointment Now

Don't let foot pain cause you to miss out on the activities you enjoy. Complete the contact form on this page or call our office, the Foot and Ankle Center of Lake City, at 206-368-7000 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Rion Berg.

Most new patients are seen within 1-2 week's time. During your initial visit, Dr. Berg will spend up to 30 minutes getting to know you, your podiatry complaints, and your goals so that he can recommend the treatment best meets your needs. Don’t wait—contact us today.

North Seattle Foot & Ankle Specialist Dr. Rion Berg offers compassionate podiatry care for all foot and ankle problems to those living in Seattle Washington and the surrounding areas. Call us today at 206-368-7000 for an immediate appointment or request an appointment online.

 

Dr. Rion Berg
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A podiatrist in North Seattle treating families for over 40 years.
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