Metatarsalgia

Morton's Metatarsalgia, as it is often called is an irritating condition affecting the foot. It is characterised by the presence of a sharp stabbing pain in the forefoot during walking or running.

It is caused by nipping of one of the nerves that runs between the metatarsals in the foot. When weight is taken through the foot and during ambulation (walking) the metatarsals move slightly. During this movement they can squeeze the nerve that runs between them. This in itself causes pain but if it happens repeatedly the nerve may become chronically swollen. This is then called AN INTERDIGITAL NEUROMA.

Treatment

In the early stages of the condition physical therapy in the form of electrotherapy may be helpful in alleviating the pain and swelling. If the condition has become chronic or longstanding the favoured approach is an injection of local anaesthetic and cortico-steroid into the area. The results with this are relatively good. Should this fail to resolve the condition, surgery to remove the neuroma is an option.

For further information on metatarsalgia and its successful rehabilitation please click here.