Morton’s neuroma is a common condition affecting the nerves in the foot. It causes pain and discomfort, often in the ball of the foot or between the toes. While conservative treatments can be effective for many patients, some may require surgery if non-surgical options do not relieve their symptoms. If you’re considering Morton’s neuroma surgery, it’s important to understand the potential side effects, risks, and long-term implications. At Straits Podiatry, we provide comprehensive care for Morton’s neuroma and help guide patients through all treatment options before going for surgery. Here’s everything you need to know about Morton’s neuroma surgery.
What is Morton’s Neuroma?
Morton’s neuroma is a benign (non-cancerous) growth of nerve tissue that usually forms between toes, most commonly between the third and fourth. This condition is typically caused by irritation, compression, or injury to the nerve. The thickening of the tissue around the nerve leads to sharp-shooting pain, burning sensations, numbness, and a feeling of a lump or something inside the shoe. It is most common in individuals who wear tight shoes, engage in high-impact activities, or have foot deformities like bunions or high arches.
Symptoms of Morton’s Neuroma Include:
- Sharp or burning pain in the ball of the foot
- Tingling or numbness between the toes
- A sensation of walking on a pebble or having something in the shoe
- Pain that worsens with activity or wearing tight shoes
When Should You Consider Morton’s Neuroma Surgery?
Surgery for Morton’s neuroma is usually recommended only when conservative treatments, such as rest, footwear change, custom foot insoles, shockwave therapy, or injections, fail to provide relief. The decision to undergo surgery is usually made after several months of non-invasive treatment have not shown signs of improvement.
You may consider Morton’s neuroma surgery if:
- Pain persists after exhausting available non-surgical treatments
- You experience significant difficulty with daily activities due to foot pain
- Symptoms are severe and disabling
- Conservative measures have not improved your quality of life
Risks and Benefits of Morton’s Neuroma Surgery
Benefits:
- Pain Relief: The primary benefit of Morton’s neuroma surgery is relief from pain and discomfort caused by the nerve compression.
- Improved Quality of Life: With successful surgery, many patients return to daily activities without the nagging pain that was previously interfering with their foot function.
- Long-term Resolution: Surgery may provide a better long-term solution, especially if non-surgical options are unsuccessful.
Risks:
- Infection: Surgery always risks developing infection at the incision site.
- Nerve Damage: Morton’s neuroma surgery typically involves removing or resecting the affected nerve tissue, which may damage the surrounding nerves. This can cause altered sensations, numbness, or further pain.
- Recurrence: In some cases, the neuroma can regrow, especially if the remaining nerve continues to be under compression.
- Scar Tissue Formation: Sensitive scar tissue may form around the surgical site, leading to discomfort or potential problems with foot function.
- Down Time: After surgery, patients may need time to recover, with some experiencing swelling, bruising, or pain during the healing process.
Long-Term Implications of Morton’s Neuroma Surgery
While Morton’s neuroma surgery can provide long-term relief for many individuals, it is not without potential long-term implications. Some patients may experience:
- Persistent Numbness: Removal or alteration of the nerve can lead to long-term numbness or tingling in the toes or the ball of the foot.
- Changes in Foot Mechanics: Altering the nerve or surrounding tissue could potentially increase the risk of further injury to the foot. Lack of sensation may increase pressure on the area, leading to corns, calluses, or even joint pains.
- Foot Deformities: Although rare, surgery may result in foot structure or alignment changes, leading to new problems such as a hammertoe or claw toe.
Why Surgery Should Be the Last Resort
There are several reasons why you should always consider surgery as a last resort for treating Morton’s neuroma:
Improving with Conservative Treatments
Morton’s neuroma symptoms can typically improve with non-surgical methods. There are several options available, such as modifying footwear, using foot orthotics, shockwave therapy, or injections. Non-surgical treatment carries much less risk than surgery and, therefore, should be considered first.
Risk of Complications
Any invasive treatment methods carry risks, including nerve damage, infection, and prolonged wound recovery. These risks have to outweigh the benefits for patients to make going through surgery worthwhile.
Post-Surgical Recovery
You will need to take a period of rest after Morton’s neuroma surgery, which can take between a few weeks to potentially months. You may also experience pain and discomfort during this time. Setting your expectations right and weighing the benefits of the procedure before going through it is key.
Possibility of Recurrence
Although rare, some neuroma may return even after surgery. This is usually due to unresolved factors leading to persistent nerve compression. Therefore, if you are considering Morton’s neuroma surgery, you need to see a Podiatrist to address the root of the condition, such as foot deformities or tight footwear.
Conclusion
Morton’s neuroma surgery can be an effective treatment option for those who have not found relief from conservative treatments. However, it is important to consider the potential risks, benefits, and long-term implications of the surgery. At Straits Podiatry, we prioritize a comprehensive approach to foot health and work with our patients to explore all available treatment options. Surgery should always be the last resort after careful consideration and thorough discussion of the potential outcomes.
If you are currently experiencing symptoms of Morton’s neuroma, schedule a consultation with one of our podiatrists today. At Straits Podiatry, our podiatrists will discuss and develop a management plan tailored to your specific needs. We strive to help you achieve long-term relief and improve your foot health without surgery.
