If you’re experiencing pain in the ball of your foot, especially between the third and fourth toes, you may be suffering from Morton’s neuroma.
This painful condition is caused when the nerve between your toes begins to thicken. It can lead to a burning sensation in the ball of your foot that radiates into your toes, a shooting pain, or numbness. It can also make you feel like you’re standing on a small rock or marble.
Morton’s neuroma can happen to anyone, but is most likely to affect runners, skiers and people who frequently wear high-heels.
What should you do if you think you may have Morton’s neuroma?
It’s important to never ignore foot pain.
If you leave Morton’s neuroma untreated, it can get worse over time and even cause permanent nerve damage.
The good news is that we can diagnose Morton’s neuroma at District Foot and Ankle, using a clinical test called a “Mulder’s click,” or “Mulder’s sign.” Once you’ve been diagnosed with Morton’s neuroma, we can begin treatment, getting you back to doing the things you love.
How does Mulder’s click work?
When you come in to District Foot and Ankle for a Mulder’s click, a podiatrist will squeeze the two sides of your foot together. At the same time, they’ll put pressure on the space between your toes. If there’s a click, or shooting nerve pain, it indicates that you’re suffering from Morton’s neuroma.
A neuroma can be confirmed with imaging as well like an ultrasound or MRI.
We can then recommend treatment options. There are a number of treatments available that can reduce or even eliminate the pain of Morton’s neuroma.
Initial treatment options will involve potentially reducing aggravating activities and modification or shoes. Orthotics can be helpful for a neuroma with increased arch support and an added cushion through the arch called a metatarsal pad can help redistribute pressure away from the irritated nerve. Cortisone injection can also be extremely helpful because they offer both therapeutic benefit (the patient feels better) and also it helps the doctor clarify the diagnosis.
If neuroma pain does not get better with conservative treatment, surgery can be considered. The options are either a release of the nerve (known as a neurolysis) or complete removal of the nerve (called a neurectomy).
If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, it’s important to come in to District Foot and Ankle for a Mulder’s click test. Don’t suffer in silence from foot pain- let us help you get back to the things you love.