Morton’s neuroma is caused by the compression and thickening of the plantar nerve when it is between two metatarsal heads. The compression of the nerve may cause sharp pain or cramps in the footpad area that radiates to the toes and forces the patient to stop walking and even remove his shoes.
It is most common between the third and fourth toes, although it can be formed between any of the metatarsals. Conservative treatment consists on the use of wide shoes, insoles (to separate the metatarsal heads), anti-inflammatory medication and corticosteroid injections which sometimes eliminate partially or completely the pain. Surgical treatment is based on the nerve decompression or the removal of the neuroma, depending on the case.
