A neuroma is a noncancerous growth of nerve tissue that can develop anywhere in the body, states the Mayo Clinic. Morton's neuroma, however, occurs in the nerve in the foot, usually between the third and fourth toes. This can cause a patient to experience sharp, burning pain in the foot that may move into the toes. Researchers are not sure what causes Morton's neuroma; however, it seems to occur when the foot is exposed to excessive irritation or pressure. This may cause the nerves in the foot to thicken as the body responds to the irritation.
High-Heeled Shoes
According to Medline Plus, of the National Institutes of Health, wearing high-heeled or tight or ill-fitting shoes can place excessive pressure on the bottom of the foot and contribute to the development of a Morton's neuroma. Therefore, a patient should sparingly wear high-heeled shoes to prevent nerve aggravation in the foot. Additionally, a patient should make sure he is wearing the proper size shoes to avoid excessive aggravation of the nerves in the foot.
Physical Activity
High-levels of physical activity can cause a Morton's neuroma, according to the Mayo Clinic. Athletes who subject their feet to excessive trauma, such as through running or jumping, may increase the risk for the development of a Morton's neuroma. An athlete should make sure she is wearing properly cushioned shoes if she is going to participate in high-impact athletic activity. She should try to run on soft surfaces, such as grass, when running long distances. Finally, she should see a doctor if she begins to notice pain or discomfort in his foot.
Injury
An injury to the foot may cause a Morton's neuroma to form, states the Mayo Clinic. A patient may injure his foot in a fall, car accident or other trauma situations. As the foot heals, the body may form a neuroma in response to the damage from the injury. A patient should follow his doctor's treatment plan for proper healing of his foot after an injury to reduce his risk of developing a Morton's neuroma. Additionally, he should see his doctor if he begins to experience pain in the foot after his injury has healed. This will help a doctor know that the foot pain may be coming from a neuroma and not necessarily from the previous foot injury.
