Morton

Morton's Neuroma

Morton's Neuroma (pronounced: MOR-tunz nuh-ROH-muh) is a medical condition that affects the foot, more specifically the ball of the foot. It is named after the American surgeon, Dr. Thomas George Morton who first described the condition in 1876.

Etymology

The term "neuroma" originates from the Greek words "neuron" meaning nerve and "oma" meaning tumor. Despite its name, Morton's Neuroma is not actually a tumor, but a thickening of the tissue that surrounds the digital nerve leading to the toes.

Definition

Morton's Neuroma is a painful condition that affects the ball of your foot, most commonly the area between your third and fourth toes. It involves a thickening of the tissue around one of the nerves leading to your toes. This can cause a sharp, burning pain in the ball of your foot. Your toes also may sting, burn or feel numb.

Symptoms

Symptoms of Morton's Neuroma include:

• Tingling or numbness in the toes
• A feeling as if you're standing on a pebble in your shoe
• A burning pain in the ball of your foot that may radiate into your toes
• The feeling of having a bunion or callus

Causes

The exact cause of Morton's Neuroma is unknown. However, it seems to occur in response to irritation, pressure or injury to one of the nerves that lead to your toes.

Treatment

Treatment for Morton's Neuroma may include:

• Custom shoe inserts or pads
• Physical therapy
• Medications to reduce inflammation and pain
• In severe cases, surgery may be required

Related Terms

• Podiatry
• Orthopedics
• Foot Pain
• Nerve Pain

External links

• Medical encyclopedia article on Morton
• Wikipedia's article - Morton

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