Morton’s neuroma is a common and painful foot condition that affects about one in three people at some point in their lives. It causes inflammation of the nerve between the third and fourth toes.
Over time, this inflammation can thicken the nerve tissue, affecting your gait (how you walk) and quality of life. Though Morton’s neuroma usually responds to at-home treatments, like ice, rest, and wearing more comfortable shoes, sometimes the pain persists. When this happens, surgery is often the most effective way to find relief.
At South Denver Podiatry in Littleton, Colorado, our team of podiatrists has years of experience performing Morton’s neuroma surgery. Here, we briefly explain the procedure and what to expect once you leave the clinic.
Several types of foot surgery are used to treat Morton’s neuroma. We’ll review your symptoms and their severity and may recommend:
This is the most common surgery for Morton’s neuroma. It’s minimally invasive and involves your surgeon removing the hardened portion of your interdigital nerve.
This procedure uses a targeted electrical current to heat up and destroy your damaged nerve tissue. That interrupts pain signals to the brain, allowing you to walk and stand comfortably.
This surgery exposes your intradigital nerve tissue to extreme cold. It damages the targeted nerve cells, reducing inflammation and sensitivity.
Regardless of the surgery we recommend, these procedures typically take 30-60 minutes. After treatment, you’ll need someone to pick you up and drive you home.
Morton’s neuroma surgery is outpatient, so you don’t have to stay in the hospital overnight. Immediately after your procedure, we monitor your vital signs for about an hour and prescribe pain medication to help relieve discomfort.
In the hours after the anesthesia wears off, it’s normal to experience mild bruising, redness, and pain. Keep your foot elevated at all times to reduce swelling and avoid standing and walking for extended periods. If you need to get up and move around, we may recommend a walking boot or crutches to help relieve pressure on your foot.
Most pain should subside within a week or two, but if your symptoms worsen or you notice signs of an infection, contact our office immediately.
Once the initial swelling and bruising go down (a process that often takes a week or two), you may begin physical therapy.
Physical therapy combines stretches and strengthening exercises to build up the muscles in your feet and support mobility. If prescribed, be sure to attend each of your scheduled appointments and follow your therapist’s instructions to support healing.
As with any surgery, complications are rare, but possible. Some people experience nerve damage, numbness, or recurring neuromas. You can reduce some of this risk by wearing comfortable, supportive shoes and gradually returning to your normal routine.
The good news is that most patients experience significant pain relief and an improved quality of life.
Contact us if pain in the ball of your foot is keeping you from exercising or playing with your kids. Call our Littleton, Colorado, office or book your appointment online.
