There are several different possible explanations for ball of foot pain. If you are experiencing unusual sensations—like feeling as though you are standing on a pebble in your shoe (when there isn’t anything in there)—it is quite possible you have developed a nerve condition called Morton’s neuroma. If the pain or abnormal sensations are coming from between the bases of the third and fourth toes, it’s more likely this is exactly what is plaguing you.
Never heard of a neuroma before? Well, this is a condition wherein physical damage of some kind has led to a thickening of nerve tissue. The resulting bundle of nerves can misfire, which is the source of pain and unfamiliar sensations.
When you have a Morton’s neuroma, one thing is certain – you will want relief. In some cases, treating this condition is simply a matter of switching your footwear. This means your starting point for finding relief is to choose shoe models that have wide, deep to boxes (the front part of a shoe). Avoid ones that are tight, and especially high heels.
In addition to shoe changes, part of our initial treatment for a Morton’s neuroma may include using anti-inflammatory medications to reduce swelling in the area and relieve pain. Possible options include ibuprofen, naproxen, and other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). For optimal pain relief and safety, make sure to follow our dosage recommendations and give us a call if you have any questions.
Other conservative treatment options include shoe insoles, rest and ice. Insoles are usually of minimal benefit, but there is a chance they will help and may be worth trying. Reducing your usual physical activities—and especially high-impact ones like jogging, running, dancing, and sports played on hard surfaces—gives your feet a much-needed break. You don’t have to completely abandon all exercises, though! Instead of being inactive, use low-impact activities like cycling and swimming.
When conservative treatment doesn’t provide the relief you hope to see, it may be time to explore injection therapy or surgery. Some patients are treated effectively with the use of corticosteroid injections. For others, the nerve will need to be decompressed. Some doctors advocate removing the nerve, but this is a mistake!
Morton’s neuroma is one of the many lower limb conditions we treat at our Bloomington office, which means there is no need to suffer from any foot or ankle pain! Instead, come in and see us for the effective care you deserve. Contact us today for more information by filling out the online form found here on our website or simply give us a call at (812) 333-4422.
