Can you treat Morton’s Neuroma at home? 

Morton’s neuroma is a condition in which the tissue around a nerve in your foot thickens, causing discomfort. It usually arises when the nerve becomes damaged or irritated – common causes include poorly-fitting shoes or certain foot deformities like bunions or flat feet. 

Some patients experience shooting pains from the ball of the foot to the toes or pain in the arch of the foot. Others describe the sensation of having a stone in their shoe or walking on a razor blade. The pain may not always be constant. In fact, Morton’s neuroma pain can be intermittent and disappear as quickly as it comes. Alternatively, in some cases, it may worsen over time.

If you’re experiencing Morton’s neuroma, it’s best to book an appointment with a podiatrist or chiropodist so they can identify the cause. However, there are also several at-home  Morton’s neuroma treatment options you can try to ease your discomfort and prevent any further damage.

Use an orthotic device 

Orthotics is the general term for any external device or mechanism that provides support to muscles and bones. Orthotic devices such as braces or supports, or smaller aids like toe spacers and metatarsal pads, can help alleviate pain caused by Morton’s neuroma. 

Orthotics usually don’t need to be a custom fit – you can use anything that relieves pressure on the painful nerve. You may choose to wear an orthotic device all the time or use it as a daily treatment, depending on what is the most comfortable for you.

If you have any questions about orthotics, you can always speak to the City Foot Health team for guidance.

Rest

Resting in a way that takes the pressure off the affected area is a good way to manage any type of pain. So if you’re suffering from Morton’s neuroma, make sure you take time to rest your feet.

If you play any high-impact sports, run regularly, or do any other activity which puts excessive strain on your feet, it’s best to take a break so your inflamed nerve can heal. Once the pain improves, you can speak to a chiropodist or podiatrist to discuss whether and how you can resume your usual activities without exacerbating the Morton’s neuroma.

Contrast foot baths

Contrast bathing is the process of dipping the affected area into hot and cold water alternately. 

Aim for 40℃ for the hot water and the cold water should be as cold as you can stand — but no lower than 7℃. The usual suggested time is four minutes in the hot water and one minute in the cold, continuing until the waters are both at room temperature. This method has been shown to reduce swelling, and you can add magnesium sulphate (Epsom salt) if you wish.

Massage therapy 

Massage can help relieve the pain of Morton’s neuroma, but it is important to get the techniques right. The best massage techniques for this condition are ones that help to mobilise the metatarsal heads. Applying mild pressure to these areas can alleviate the pain, especially when combined with daily use of aids like toe spacers or metatarsal pads. 

Be sure not to apply too much pressure to the metatarsal heads, as this can actually worsen nerve compression and contribute to the pain.

Call City Foot Health

The best way to treat any sort of severe foot pain is to get in touch with a qualified chiropodist and let the experts take care of it.

At City Foot Health, our podiatrists will assess and diagnose Morton’s Neuroma and design a treatment plan tailored to the patient. 

Treatment options include:

• Orthotic therapy 
• Footwear advice 
• Injection therapy 
• Acupuncture
• Surgical treatment