The irritation of the nerve causes the connective tissue surrounding the foot nerve to swell, scar tissue develops and fluid build. Nerve compression is caused by mechanical pressure on the plantar nerve of the foot. Thomas Schneider, MD Minimally invasive surgery for Morton's neuroma to save the nerve However, it’s more common between the 3rd and 4th toe. The foot viewed from the sole: In this case, Morton's neuroma is located between the 2nd and 3rd toe. There are generallytwo methods which can be used: neurolysis to save the nerve or removing the nerve. Surgery is reasonable if conservative treatments such as foot orthotics, shoe supply such as butterfly insoles, foot exercises and self-massage or injecting local anaesthetics cannot provide long-term pain relief. How is Morton's neuroma surgery performed at Gelenk-Klinik? Once approved by the anaesthetist and the surgeon, the surgery can typically be performed the day after the examination. In addition, there will be a discussion with the anaesthetist, who will again review the patient’s health condition with respect to anaesthesia. The physician then uses the results to determine the suitable surgical technique together with the patient.Īfter determining the patient’s suitability for surgery, the treating physician will discuss the procedure and possible complications of the surgery with the patient. Podometry (foot pressure measurement) is also helpful to measure the pressure distribution under the bottom of the foot. Apart from discussing the medical history and a physical examination, this includes MRI images in prone position with contrast agent and in x-rays standing.

Improper weight distribution as in the case of pronounced splayfootįirst the physician will perform a thorough diagnostic examination and imaging.

Soft-tissue changes, including scars, warts and tumors.

Stress fractures in any of the metatarsal bones.

Inflammation in any of the joints between the metatarsal bones (bones of the forefoot) and the proximal phalanges (bones at the base of the toe).

Morton's neuroma is most likely to occur between the 3rd and 4th toe, and somewhat less likely to occur between the 2nd and 3rd toe.Īlternative Causes of Pain in The Forefoot Splayfoot changes the position of the metatarsal bones and increases pressure on the nerves running along the sole of the foot.īut even men – primarily runners training a lot – can develop it. This is probably related to footwear: High heels and pointed toes cause a lot of pressure on the front arch of the foot, increasing the risk of developing splayfoot. Women are four times more likely to develop Morton's neuroma than men. Morton's neuroma is a very common result of splayfoot, sometimes in combination with hallux valgus. Formication or a feeling of numbness in the toes are symptoms of Morton's neuroma. After taking the strain off the foot, the pain quickly subsides.

The pain is so severe that patients will only experience temporary relief by sitting down or taking off their shoes. It causes acute shooting, burning or stabbing pain in the metatarsus (metatarsalgia) and in the toes. Morton's neuroma is a thickening of the metatarsal nerves.

If the nerve (yellow) is irritated, burning or stabbing metatarsal pain occurs throughout the area it supplies. Morton's neuroma (red) as swelling between the metatarsal bones of the toes (blue). Scheduling your appointment for foot surgery in Germany.How will my treatment be organized at Gelenk-Klinik?.Should I expect pain after Morton's neuroma surgery?.Aftercare, rehabilitation following Morton's neuroma surgery.Anaesthesia for Morton's neuroma surgery.Orthopaedic surgeon and foot and ankle specialist for Morton's neuroma at Gelenk-Klinik.How is Morton's neuroma surgery performed at Gelenk-Klinik?.Diagnosis and preparing for Morton's neuroma surgery.Who qualifies for Morton's neuroma surgery?.

Diagram of nerve endings in feet