Morton’s neuroma is a painful condition that affects the ball of your foot, primarily the area between your third and fourth toes. It occurs when the tissue around one of the nerves leading to your toes thickens and causes a sharp pain or burning sensation in your foot. This condition can be debilitating and make it difficult to walk or stand for an extended period. Since early diagnosis is crucial in managing Morton’s neuroma, it is essential to learn how to identify its signs and symptoms.
Painful sensations
The most common symptom of Morton’s neuroma is a sharp pain or burning sensation in the ball of your foot, especially when you put weight on it. The pain may also radiate towards your toes, causing numbness or tingling sensations.
Foot swelling
Morton’s neuroma can cause inflammation around the nerve affected by this condition, leading to swelling in your foot. You may notice swelling around the base of your third and fourth toes, which can exacerbate Morton’s neuroma pain.
Difficulty walking
As Morton’s neuroma progresses, walking or standing for prolonged periods can become increasingly painful or challenging. This difficulty arises due to pressure exerted on the nerve that leads from the ball of your foot to your toes.
Feeling like you have something inside your shoe
Patients with Morton’s neuroma often describe feeling like they have a small stone inside their shoe that causes discomfort while walking or standing.
Clicking sound
In some cases, there may be an audible clicking sound when you move your affected toe as a result of irritation caused by Morton’s neuroma.
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is essential to seek medical attention from a physiotherapist or chiropractor who can confirm whether you have Morton’s neuroma through physical examination and imaging tests such as X-rays or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
Morton’s neuroma can significantly impact your quality of life, but early diagnosis and management can help alleviate its symptoms. It is essential to be aware of the signs and symptoms of this condition so that you can seek medical attention promptly. A physiotherapist or chiropractor can provide an accurate diagnosis and develop a treatment plan tailored to your needs, including exercises, orthotics, or medication. Remember, taking care of your feet is crucial for maintaining overall health and well-being.
If you have any questions or would like to explore further, please book a free, no-charge online appointment. Dr. Tyler Baron is a chiropractor in Kitchener.
