Morton’s neuroma is a common foot injury that can be caused by several things, such as wearing tight shoes or high heels. If you think you may have Morton’s neuroma, it’s important to know what the symptoms are and how to treat them. In this beginner’s guide, we’ll teach you everything you need to know about Morton’s neuroma. We’ll cover the causes, symptoms, and treatment options so that you can get back to your everyday life as quickly as possible.
What is Morton’s Neuroma?
Morton’s neuroma is a common foot injury that can affect anyone, regardless of age or gender. The main cause of Morton’s neuroma is wearing tight shoes or high heels that put pressure on the bottom of your foot. Other factors that may contribute to the development of this condition include obesity, high arches in your feet, flat feet, and activities that put repetitive stress on your feet, such as running. Symptoms of Morton’s neuroma include pain in the ball of your foot, burning or tingling sensations, numbness in your toes, and a feeling that there is a pebble in your shoe. The pain from this condition can range from mild to severe, and it often gets worse when you walk or stand for long periods.
There are several treatment options available for Morton’s neuroma, including wearing supportive shoes, icing the affected area, taking over-the-counter pain medications, and seeing a foot specialist for physical therapy or orthotics. If these treatments do not provide relief, you may need surgery to remove the neuroma.
What are the complications of surgery?
With any surgery, there are always risks and potential complications. The most common complication associated with the treatment of Morton’s neuroma is nerve damage, which can lead to permanent numbness or weakness in your foot. Other potential complications include excessive bleeding and infection. It’s important to discuss all of these risks with your doctor before deciding on a treatment plan.
What to expect after surgery?
After surgery, you will likely need to wear a protective boot or cast for four to six weeks. You will also need to take it easy and avoid putting any weight on your foot while it heals. Physical therapy may also be recommended to help you regain strength and range of motion in your foot. Recovery times vary from person to person, but most people can return to their normal activities within a few months.
Post Operative Instructions:
- Foot Elevation- This is extremely important for wound healing, pain, and swelling control. You should have the foot at the level of the chest for 23 hours in the day for the first 3 days. After this, until 2 weeks postoperatively, it should be kept elevated for 50 % of the time when awake.
- Bandage Care- The bandage can be removed by you after 48 hours, leaving on the remaining waterproof dressings.
- Smoking- Refrain from smoking 2 weeks before and after your operation.
- Return to Work– For a desk job, when you feel able as long as you comply with the post-operative instructions. For a job involving being on your feet most of the time, 3-4 weeks.
- Driving- You need to be able to control the vehicle in an emergency. Can you stamp your foot down on the ground? For left-sided surgery and no clutch is required, driving is probably safe after 2days postoperatively. For right-sided surgery, driving is probably safe at 2 weeks postoperatively, once in a normal shoe.
- Return to Sport- Once the wound has healed at 2 weeks, swimming can be commenced and also light exercise such as bicycle spinning (low resistance). In 4 weeks, more strenuous activities can be started.
The length of time for a return to strenuous activity will depend on the type of sport, and how specific the activities are to that sport. The more general the training (e.g. aerobics), then the quicker you will be able to return. The more specific sports like tennis and running may take a little longer.
If you think you may have Morton’s neuroma, it is important to see a foot specialist so that they can confirm the diagnosis and develop a treatment plan that is right for you. With the proper diagnosis and treatment, most people with Morton’s neuroma can find relief from their symptoms and get back to their everyday activities.
Remember, The 3 Arches of Your Feet Still Need Support!
Maybe you have already felt the first symptoms of balance disorders or you want to prevent them from appearing in the first place. Consider getting a foot orthotic device or simply take care of your feet. Start by washing them thoroughly with a gentle soap whenever you take a shower. Being a very complex support system, your feet are your first line of defense against balance-related issues, since their arches provide you with the stability you need in your daily life. It’s time to put your foot down and push back against balance issues. With both feet on the ground, dedicate yourself to keeping them comfortable and healthy. Give us a call and we will scan your feet to make you custom orthotic inserts.
The Shoe Doctor has specialized in providing custom orthotics for 20 years. The right orthotic insoles can greatly reduce foot, knee and hip pain while increasing performance and comfort. Russell at The Shoe Doctor will help educate and assist you in finding the perfect solution for your particular situation. We will create a 3D map of your feet and make custom orthotics for your hiking boots, everyday shoes, and everything else in between. These orthotics, along with our expert advice, will get you using orthotics like a pro, and have you performing at the peak of your abilities in no time! If you are in the San Francisco Bay Area, give The Shoe Doctor a call to get the best custom orthotics in the area! We are here to assist you, schedule your free consultation here!
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