Middle‑aged women who stay active, especially in running or other impact sports, may confront a higher risk of Morton’s neuroma, a painful nerve condition in the foot caused by inflammation of the plantar nerves. This insight comes from specialists in traumatology, orthopedics, and sports medicine who observe how athletic life intersects with foot health.
Any sport carries benefits and potential drawbacks. Morton’s neuroma is one such outcome. It shows up as a dense, fusiform thickening near the metatarsal heads—the joints between the toes, most often between the third and fourth toes or between the second and third. The root cause is compression of the plantar nerves, leading to inflammation, swelling, and the growth of connective tissue. The result can be sharp or burning pain in the ball of the foot, sometimes accompanied by tingling or a sensation as if a pebble is stuck under the foot.
Typical management starts with conservative strategies aimed at reducing stress on the forefoot. Lifestyle adjustments, nonsteroidal anti‑inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and other analgesics are commonly recommended to relieve pain and inflammation. In some cases, more targeted interventions such as injections or physical therapy may be advised to ease nerve pressure and improve foot function. In persistent or severe situations, surgical removal of the affected nerve tissue or other procedures may be necessary, underscoring the importance of early consultation with a foot and ankle specialist at the first signs of neuroma, such as persistent forefoot pain during activities or when wearing shoes.
Several factors are linked to a higher likelihood of developing Morton’s neuroma. Obesity, long periods of standing, repetitive forefoot pressure from running or jumping, and a gait pattern that places the arch and forefoot under uneven loading can contribute to nerve irritation. Footwear choices also matter; high heels or narrow toe boxes that squeeze the forefoot and toes increase pinpoint stress on the nerves, potentially accelerating the development of a neuroma. Additional risk factors include existing joint or tendon disorders, previous foot injuries, and structural differences in the feet that concentrate pressure in the forefoot. Conditioning, footwear, and training practices play substantial roles in either mitigating or amplifying risk for athletes and active individuals.
Prevention centers on thoughtful footwear selection, proper training progression, and attention to foot mechanics. Wearing shoes with a wide toe box, good arch support, and adequate cushioning helps distribute pressure away from the forefoot. Regular foot‑specific exercises can promote mobility and strength, while cross‑training and gradual increases in running volume reduce repetitive forefoot loading. In addition, maintaining a healthy body weight and scheduling rest days to allow tissue recovery can further minimize risk. Early evaluation by a clinician who can assess foot mechanics, nerve symptoms, and gait patterns is crucial when symptoms arise, as timely intervention improves outcomes and may prevent the condition from becoming more troublesome.
When symptoms escalate or fail to improve with lifestyle changes, medical professionals may explore additional options. Corticosteroid injections can reduce inflammation around the nerve, while nerve block techniques may help diagnose the exact source of pain. Custom orthotics or shoe modifications can alter pressure distribution across the forefoot, offering significant relief for many patients. In some cases, physical therapy focused on foot and ankle mechanics, balance, and flexibility is a valuable component of recovery. If nonoperative measures do not provide adequate relief, surgical options such as neuroma excision or targeted decompression may be discussed as part of a comprehensive treatment plan. The goal is to restore function, relieve pain, and allow continued participation in preferred activities with minimal disruption.
In summary, Morton’s neuroma is a manageable condition, especially when detected early and approached with a holistic plan. Proactive footwear choices, mindful training habits, and prompt medical consultation when forefoot pain appears can help active individuals maintain performance and comfort. Ongoing education about foot health and regular check‑ins with healthcare professionals empower patients to stay active while protecting nerve health and overall mobility.
Attribution: AAOS