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Definition
By Mayo Clinic staffA neuroma is a noncancerous (benign) growth of nerve tissue that can develop in various parts of your body. Morton's neuroma occurs in a nerve in your foot, often between your third and fourth toes. The condition involves a thickening of the tissue around one of the nerves leading to your toes. Morton's neuroma causes a sharp, burning pain in the ball of your foot. Your toes also may sting, burn or feel numb.
Also called plantar neuroma or intermetatarsal neuroma, Morton's neuroma may occur in response to irritation, injury or pressure. Morton's neuroma may also occur for unknown reasons.
Common treatments for Morton's neuroma include changing footwear or using arch supports. Sometimes, corticosteroid injections or surgery may be necessary.
- Morton's Neuroma. American Association of Orthopaedic Surgeons. http://www.orthoinfo.aaos.org/topic.cfm?topic=A00158. Accessed July 11, 2008.
- Hughes, RJ, et. al. Musculoskeletal Imaging: Treatment of Morton's Neuroma with Alcohol Injection Under Sonographic Guidance: Follow-Up of 101 Cases. American Journal of Roentgenology. 2007; 188:1535-1539.
- Womack, JW., M.D., et. al. Long-Term Evaluation of Interdigital Neuroma Treated by Surgical Excision. Foot & Ankle International. 2008; 29(6): 574-577.
- Markovic, M, MB, BS, et. al. Effectiveness of Ultrasound-Guided Corticosteroid Injection in the Treatment of Morton's Neuroma. Foot & Ankle International. 2008; 29(5): 483-487.
- Mozena, JD., DPM, et. al. Efficacy of Chemical Neurolysis for the Treatment of Interdigital Nerve Compression of the Foot: A Retrospective Study. Journal of the American Podiatric Medical Association. May 2007; 97(3): 203-206.
- Akermark, C, et. al. A prospective 2-year follow-up study of plantar incisions in the treatment of primary intermetatarsal neuromas (Morton's neuroma). Foot & Ankle Surgery. 2008; 14: 67-73.
- Weller, G (expert opinion). Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn. July 27, 2008.
