Morton's Neuroma Specialist

What is Morton’s neuroma?

Nicknamed a “benign tumor,” Morton’s neuroma is an inflammation of your nerve in the ball of your foot, often between your third and fourth toes. This inflammation occurs because the nerve becomes compressed and irritated.

While Morton’s neuroma can affect anyone, it most commonly occurs in women who regularly wear high-heeled shoes. These types of shoes are known for putting excessive pressure on your forefoot. Your risk of developing a neuroma further increases due to:

• Repeated stress, as with distance runners
• Deformities, including bunions and hammertoes
• Foot injury or trauma

You’re also more likely to suffer from Morton’s neuroma if you have flat feet or high arches. These issues further put pressure on your forefoot.

How is Morton’s neuroma diagnosed?

When you come to the office of Francine Rhinehart, DPM, you can expect personalized care to confirm that you have Morton’s neuroma issues and to rule out related conditions (like stress fractures). Dr. Rhinehart performs a detailed gait assessment and talks with you about your footwear. 

She may manipulate your foot in an effort to reproduce the pain, so she can see exactly what triggers it. Dr. Rhinehart needs to know if you experience:

• Burning
• Tenderness
• Electrical pains
• Sensations of something being stuck in your shoe (like a pebble)

Depending on the outcome of your physical examination, Dr. Rhinehart may also take X-ray or ultrasound images. In many cases, she can diagnose you on the spot and counsel you about treatment solutions. 

What is the treatment for Morton’s neuroma?

Treating Morton’s neuroma involves finding ways to take pressure off the nerve to relieve pain and promote healing. Dr. Rhinehart provides the following Morton’s neuroma treatments (to name a few) and may recommend several of them:

• Orthotic inserts
• Shoe padding
• Steroid injections 
• Shoe modifications
• Amniotic regenerative therapy
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)

Dr. Rhinehart understands how debilitating Morton’s neuroma pain can be. If needed, she offers a flexible and affordable self-pay option, so you can quickly receive the quality care you need.

Before Morton’s neuroma affects you another day, contact Francine Rhinehart, DPM, for an evaluation. Book your visit through the website or by phone today.