A neuroma (Morton’s neuroma) is a painful condition that commonly occurs in the small nerve that runs between the metatarsal bones in the ball of the foot and into the third and fourth toes. Wearing high heels, improper shoes, or having foot structure abnormalities can all cause nerve irritation. The result is inflammation and scar tissue that forms around the nerve, resulting in pain. Our podiatrists in Milwaukee explain treatments and surgery options for this condition.
Conservative Treatments
Before surgery is considered, our podiatrist will try more conservative options to relieve your pain, such as:
- Adjusting footwear -- avoid narrow, tight shoes and high heels. Choose wide, comfortable, low heeled shoes.
- Custom orthotics or padding at the ball of the foot
- Icing the inflamed area
- Reduce activity to decrease the inflammation
- Anti-inflammatory medications such as Ibuprofen
- Corticosteroid injections
If these methods do not work, we will discuss surgery to address your neuroma.
Neuroma Surgery
Surgery may be recommended to relieve your Morton’s neuroma pain. This type of surgery makes a small incision at the top of the foot and removes the nerves in the ball of the foot (referred to as a neurectomy). Surgeons may also need to release tight ligaments that surround the area during the procedure. Patients generally recover quickly, in about two to four weeks.
Aftercare & Recovery
After surgery, it is critical to rest and do any necessary physical therapy recommended by our podiatrist. Your foot will be placed in a boot or cast to help protect your foot and ankle as you heal. Recovery times differ between cases, and while most people recover within four weeks, it may take months for others with severe cases. We will discuss your specific case and time frame for recovery during your consultation.
Contact Our Podiatrists in Milwaukee for More Information!
To find out more, contact us at 414-246-9639. Our friendly team will answer any questions you may have about foot care or scheduling a consultation.