A Morton's Neuroma is a painful condition of the foot caused by a pinched nerve in the forefoot. The nerves of the toes are compressed between the bones behind the toes before the nerve splits into a "Y" which supplies the sensation to the web space between the two toes. The Morton's Neuroma usually occurs between the web space of the 3rd and 4th toes. Upon examination, a clicking that is felt between the 3rd interspace often indicates a neuroma.

A neuroma is caused by repeated friction and pressure on the nerve, which in turn causes the nerve to scar and become thicker, the result is numbness, tingling, or burning between the toes. Pain or burning also may shoot backwards up the foot into the leg. As the day goes on you may experience more pain that is relieved when shoes are removed. Stiff, restrictive shoes often will increase these symptoms.

Treatment for Morton's Neuroma is usually easy to treat with a metatarsal pad and shoes with a roomy toe box and a soft upper that is flexible. Soft orthoses with a support in the arch and a metatarsal pad help lift and separate the metatarsal shafts, relieving pressure on the nerve. Cortisone shots into the web space around the nerve may also help. In the most severe of cases a Morton's Neuroma may require surgery. The ligaments holding the two metatarsal bones together are divided; a small segment of the nerve is removed, which in turn relieves the pain and numbness between the web spaces.

Please consult your physician.

Shoe Recommendations:

• Running: 1123, 992, 882, WR768, 587.
• Walking: 926, WW844, 811, WW659.
• Cross-Training: 855.
• Court: 803.

Insole Recommendations:

• Sport Cushion IMC3200
• Pressure Relief IPR3010