What is Morton's Neuroma?

Morton’s neuroma occurs when the nerves that reach out to the toes are squeezed between the bones and ligaments in the foot.  When toes are squeezed together for too long or too often, the extra pressure on the nerves causes the surrounding tissue to become swollen and thicken.  This can happen to several nerves in the foot, but most commonly affects the area between the third and fourth toes.  Dr. Frank Killian of Mercer-Ocean Podiatry can diagnose and treat Morton’s neuroma if you have this pain in your foot!


The largest contributor to this pain by far is ill-fitting or constrictive footware.  Both men and women wear shoes too tight and narrow for them, but high heels increase the pressure and constriction on the toes, so Morton’s neuroma is more common in women due to their footwear.  Certain high-impact sports can contribute to Morton’s neuroma, when the feet and toes experience repeated trauma.  Patients with existing deformities in the foot like bunions or high arches are also at risk for developing Morton’s neuroma.  Morton’s neuroma typically forms over time, and a patient may only notice small episodes of pain at first.  Numbness or tingling in the ball of the foot can also indicate Morton’s neuroma, and you should always see a podiatrist in order to determine what exactly is causing you discomfort.


To learn more about Morton’s Neuroma and all the other conditions we treat at our office, visit www.newjerseyfoot.com for more information.  To schedule an appointment with Dr. Frank Killian of Mercer-Ocean Podiatry, PC, call our Hamilton, NJ, office at 609-585-3200 or our Toms River, NJ, office at 732-557-4266.

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