Morton's Neuroma
An interdigital neuroma is an entrapment neuropathy that results from a peripheral nerve being trapped between surrounding structures. A Morton’s neuroma is the most common type, occurring between the third and fourth metatarsal heads, or essentially near the ball of the foot between the third and fourth toes. Symptoms of neuromas include, but are not necessarily limited to, pain, numbness, and burning in the ball of the foot. Often, symptoms are reduced when the individual removes his or her shoes.
There are several causes of neuromas, and certain foot types are more predisposed to this condition than others. However, the most common and easily remedied cause is shoes that fit too tightly in the forefoot and/or have too much heel elevation, placing more pressure on the metatarsal heads. Podiatrists often treat neuromas with cortisone injections and functional (arch supportive) orthotics with metatarsal pads. There are also surgical procedures to remove the neuroma if the symptoms cannot be satisfactorily relieved through more conservative treatments.
At Wasatch Running Center, special care is taken when fitting runners and walkers with neuromas to be sure that a shoe is wide enough to avoid pressure on the first and fifth metatarsal head. Often, customers who have not been cast for a custom orthotic feel a reduction in symptoms with a combination of properly fit shoes and OTC arch supportive inserts, often with a properly placed metatarsal pad.