According to MedlinePlus, a service of the National Institutes of Health, a Morton's neuroma is the thickening of the nerve tissue between the third and fourth toes. This thickening is more common in women and results in sharp pain, numbness and tingling around the affected area, states the Mayo Clinic. Doctors do not know the cause but suspect that high heels, tight shoes, flat feet, high arches, bunions and hammertoes increase the risk of a Morton's neuroma. A patient with this condition can look into various remedies and discuss available treatment options with a doctor.
Medications
According to the Mayo Clinic, a patient should rest the foot and use nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, or NSAIDs, to treat a Morton's neuroma. You should avoid excessive physical activity that may cause inflammation of the neuroma. This includes walking for long distances, running and jumping. In more severe cases, you may need to avoid any weight-bearing activity, per your doctor's recommendations. Ask your doctor about taking over-the-counter or prescribed NSAIDs to help reduce pain and inflammation along the neuroma. Do not take NSAIDs, however, if you have kidney, liver or stomach problems.
Corticosteroid Injections
A corticosteroid injection may be effective in reducing inflammation and pain in the Morton' neuroma, states the Mayo Clinic. A corticosteroid is a strong anti-inflammatory medication that can be applied directly into the neuroma. This local application can reduce the systemic side effects of a corticosteroid that includes weight gain and high blood pressure. However, a patient is limited to only three injections per year to avoid these side effects. In addition, too much of a corticosteroid can damage surrounding bone, skin and muscles, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Alcohol Injection
Researchers are investigating a new procedure that may help heal a Morton's neuroma. This procedure involves injecting diluted alcohol into the neuroma to reduce symptoms. The Mayo Clinic reports that previous studies have been promising in treating this condition. Therefore, you should ask your doctor if he offers this procedure, because many health care professionals may not provide this novel treatment.
Surgery
In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to provide relief, states the Mayo Clinic. The procedure involves the entire removal of the neuroma and the nerve. Because the nerve is absent, the patient will likely experience numbness in the affected area. Additionally, there is always the risk of infection, excessive bleeding or structural damage with surgery. Therefore, a patient should fully weigh the risks and benefits of this procedure before consenting.
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