Morton’s Neuroma Treatment Specialists in Phoenix, AZ

Foot + Ankle Specialty Centers
Podiatrist located in Gilbert, Scottsdale, Chandler, Mesa & Phoenix, AZ

That uncomfortable sensation of feeling like you’re walking on a marble or pebble could be a sign you may have Morton’s neuroma. At Foot + Ankle Specialty Centers, we understand how debilitating this condition can be, especially if you are on your feet all day.

Our expert team is here to provide comprehensive care for the neuroma of the foot to help you find relief and get back to your daily activities comfortably. But first, let’s get to know this condition in detail. Keep reading to learn about the treatments and shoes for Morton’s neuroma.

Morton’s Neuroma Treatment in AZ

What is Morton’s Neuroma?

This is a painful condition that affects the ball of your foot. This ball is typically between the third and fourth toes. If you look at images of Morton’s neuroma, you can see it occurs when the tissue around the nerves leading to your toes thickens. This thickening causes sharp, burning pain in the ball of your foot. This condition especially happens with high-heeled shoes and repetitive stress.

What Does Morton’s Neuroma Feel Like?

It often feels like you’re standing on a pebble in your shoe or like there’s a fold in your sock. Morton’s neuroma pain can be sharp or burning, and you might experience tingling numbness or a feeling that something is inside the ball of your foot.

Morton’s Neuroma Symptoms

The symptoms include:

  • Sharp, burning pain in the ball of your foot
  • Tingling or numbness in your toes
  • A feeling of standing on a pebble
  • Swelling between the toes
  • Pain that worsens with activity or tight shoes

Morton’s Neuroma Test

At Foot + Ankle Specialty Centers, diagnosing Morton’s neuroma involves a thorough physical examination and possibly imaging tests. Here’s how we do it:

  1. We start with a physical examination. We’ll press on the area between your toes to check for pain and a palpable lump to check the presence of this condition.
  2. We might use X-rays or ultrasounds to rule out other conditions and confirm the diagnosis.

How Do Podiatrists Treat Morton’s Neuroma?

At Foot + Ankle Specialty Centers, our podiatrists offer several Morton’s neuroma treatment options methods tailored to your needs:

  1. For minor cases, we might just recommend the Rest and Ice method. You might need to rest and reduce your activity and then apply ice to alleviate symptoms.
  2. We create custom shoe inserts that provide better support and distribute pressure evenly across your foot. These orthotics and pads are designed specifically for your feet to ensure optimal comfort and reduce stress on your foot.
  3. We may recommend anti-inflammatory medications like ibuprofen or stronger medications to help you manage symptoms effectively, reduce inflammation around the nerve, and remove pain.
  4. We perform corticosteroid injections to reduce inflammation and pain around the affected area. These injections bring the medication directly to the affected area, providing significant relief.
  5. Our therapists will use Morton’s neuroma exercises to strengthen your foot muscles and improve flexibility. Our Morton’s neuroma physical therapies help in long-term recovery and prevention of future issues. Our Morton’s neuroma therapies and exercises include:
    • Toe Stretch: Sit with feet flat. Use your fingers to spread and stretch your toes apart. Hold for 10 seconds. Repeat 10 times.
    • Marble Pick-Up: Place marbles on the floor. Pick them up with your toes, one at a time. Repeat for 5 minutes.
    • Towel Scrunch: Put a towel on the floor. Use your toes to pull the towel toward you. Repeat 5 times per foot.
    • Ball Roll: Roll a tennis ball under your foot arch and apply gentle pressure. Do this for 2-3 minutes per foot.
    • Calf Stretch: Stand facing a wall. Place one foot back with the heel down and lean forward. Hold for 15 seconds, then switch. Repeat 3 times.
  6. We also provide advice on proper footwear and activities to prevent further damage to the affected area. We also suggest modifications to your daily activities to reduce pressure on your feet.

So stop Googling “Neuroma specialist near me” and contact us today at 480-741-1223.

What is the Newest Treatment for Morton’s Neuroma?

The new treatments for Morton’s neuroma include Cryogenic Neuroablation. This procedure is minimally invasive. It involves using extreme cold to destroy the affected nerve tissue. This process is quick, provides long-term relief from pain, has minimal recovery time, and allows you to return to your daily activities sooner.

What is the Best Treatment for Morton’s Neuroma?

The best treatment is wearing shoes. Not just any shoes, but ones with a wide toe box and strong arch support. This simple change can reduce nerve pressure and relieve symptoms in about 80% of cases. Supportive footwear can improve pain and mobility by up to 60% within a few weeks. You may most likely feel noticeable relief without needing further treatment. If your symptoms don’t improve, you can add padding or custom orthotics to boost comfort and provide even more support.

Morton’s Neuroma Surgery

A surgical intervention is considered when conservative treatments fail to provide relief. At Foot + Ankle Specialty Centers, we perform a procedure called a neurectomy. It involves removing the affected nerve to eliminate the source of pain. It is typically an outpatient procedure and you can go home the same day.

First, we conduct an examination and imaging tests to confirm the diagnosis and plan the procedure. Then, you will receive instructions and aftercare tips on how to prepare, including fasting and logistic arrangements.

For the surgery, we use local anesthesia to numb the area. Our surgeon makes a small incision on the top or bottom of your foot. Then, we carefully locate and remove the affected nerve. Once removed, the incision is closed with sutures.

After the procedure, we will bandage your foot, and we will give you specific instructions, including keeping the surgery area clean and dry, taking prescribed medications to manage pain, and avoiding putting weight on the foot initially.

Before and After Morton’s Neuroma Surgery

Before the surgery, you might experience:

  • Pain and discomfort in the ball of the foot
  • Difficulty wearing certain shoes
  • Limited activity levels due to discomfort

After the surgery, you will have:

  • Significant reduction or elimination of pain
  • Ability to wear a wider variety of shoes
  • Improved mobility and activity levels
Morton's Neuroma Treatment Near Me in Phoenix

How Long Does It Take for Morton’s Neuroma to Heal without Surgery?

Healing time without surgery can vary. With proper treatment, your symptoms can improve in 6-12 weeks. However, consistent use of our orthotics, medications, and lifestyle changes are crucial for effective and complete recovery.

Morton’s Neuroma Surgery Recovery

Morton’s neuroma surgery healing time typically takes 2-6 weeks. During this time, you should rest, keep your foot elevated, and avoid strenuous activities. We use physical therapy techniques to aid in the recovery process.

Choosing the Best Shoes for Morton’s Neuroma

Choosing proper shoes with arch supports is crucial. The best shoes for Morton’s neuroma should have the following features:

  • Wide toe box area to allow room for your toes.
  • Proper cushioning and padding to provide comfort and pressure reduction on the foot.
  • Low heel to reduce stress on the ball of the foot.
  • Suitable arch Support to help even weight distribution across your foot.

Does Morton’s Neuroma Go Away?

This condition can improve with proper treatment and lifestyle changes. However, without treatment, it can persist and worsen over time. Early intervention is key to managing symptoms effectively. For the best outcomes, seek professional care promptly at Foot + Ankle Specialty Centers.

Morton’s Neuroma Self-Care Tips

Managing this condition at home can help alleviate symptoms:

  • Keeping a healthy weight can lessen the stress on your feet.
  • Wearing proper footwear 
  • Modifying your activities like limiting running and jumping.
  • Taking breaks if you stand or walk a lot.
  • Applying ice for 15-20 minutes several times a day to reduce inflammation.
  • Using foot massages to gently massage the area.
  • Performing gentle stretches to improve flexibility.

Morton’s Neuroma Treatment Near Me in Phoenix

Looking for a clinic with the best medical devices and treatments? At Foot + Ankle Specialty Centers, we provide expert care at our five convenient locations in Phoenix, Gilbert, Scottsdale, Chandler, and Mesa, Arizona. Our podiatrists are dedicated to helping you find relief. Use our online scheduling or call the office nearest you to start enjoying our Arizona massage & neuroma services to achieve pain-free feet today.

FAQs

Yes, conservative treatments like orthotics, medications, and injections can reduce the size and signs of Morton’s neuroma.

Conditions such as metatarsalgia, stress fractures, and arthritis can have similar symptoms to Morton’s neuroma.

Gentle massage can help relieve symptoms, but it’s best to consult with a podiatrist for appropriate techniques and advice.

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