Morton’s neuroma is a painful condition caused by thickening of nerves between the toes, especially between the 3rd and 4th toes, due to continuous compression or friction. This nerve thickening leads to inflammation and creates a painful ball causing numbness, burning, or electric shock sensations in the toes and forefoot. Surgery can effectively relieve this pain, though patients should understand they may not regain full nerve function and some permanent numbness may occur, which usually decreases over time.
Patient expectations
The podiatrist prioritizes pain relief during surgery and ensures patients understand the risks and outcomes.
When should a patient elect to seek surgery for Morton’s neuroma?
If Morton’s neuroma limits daily activities like wearing shoes, working, or playing sports, and conservative treatments by a podiatrist have failed, surgery is recommended.
Choosing the right podiatrist for your surgery
A good podiatrist has extensive experience and a strong reputation, offers personalized surgical care with a wide range of techniques adapted to your needs, adopts a humane approach with compassion and respect, and remains available for all stages of care. PiedRéseau clinics offer quick access to such specialists.
How do we evaluate whether a patient requires surgery for Morton’s neuroma?
PiedRéseau clinics across Québec provide evaluations including medical history review, clinical exams, and imaging tests (X-ray, ultrasound, MRI). This thorough assessment determines if surgery is necessary and allows preparation of a customized surgical plan for patient approval.
The patient’s medical history is very important
Understanding the foot’s morphology and shoe habits helps explain neuroma development. Conservative treatments are usually tried first and include wearing properly fitting footwear, orthotics, physical therapy, ice, anti-inflammatory medication, and cortisone injections. Surgery is considered when these fail or if the neuroma is advanced.
X-ray, ultrasound and MRI evaluation of your foot
An X-ray rules out bone pathologies, an ultrasound helps confirm diagnosis and guide injections, while MRI precisely measures and assesses the neuroma to plan surgery appropriately.
Why choose surgery performed by a podiatrist?
Podiatrists have expert knowledge of foot biomechanics, understand foot deformities, perform specialized interventions, provide comprehensive foot care management, and aim to restore maximum foot autonomy quickly. Attentive follow-up care is essential for successful long-term outcomes.
Procedures to remedy your Morton’s neuroma
The main surgical approaches are plantar (under the foot), dorsal (top of foot), and between the toes. Each has specific benefits and risks, including scarring and recurrence rates. The choice depends on patient condition and podiatrist’s recommendation.
Chronological steps of Morton’s neuroma surgery
Surgery preparation includes a pre-surgery assessment and instructions such as blood tests, medication, hygiene, fasting if needed, and accompaniment for recovery. Procedures often use general anesthesia without IV sedation. After surgery, pain management, leg elevation, ice application, and strict care to keep the foot dry and bandages intact are crucial. Follow-up visits occur within a week, with stitches removed in 2 to 4 weeks.
What is the convalescence period for Morton’s neuroma surgery?
Recovery varies but generally takes weeks to months, with some requiring crutches. Post-surgical orthotics are recommended to correct biomechanical defects and prevent recurrence. Return to activities depends on the type; high-impact sports require longer recovery.
Following the podiatrist’s instructions precisely is vital for optimal healing and long-term pain relief.
Possible biomechanical complications and special cases
Trained podiatrists can identify and prevent biomechanical complications like capsulitis or calluses that may arise post-surgery.