Minos Ε. Tyllianakis MD, PhD

Morton (or Morton’s) neuroma is common in women. The typical complaint is pain on the plantar aspect of the foot related to tight shoes radiating to the toes like a shock of electric wave. The cause is a benign hypertrophy of the common interdigital nerve. Diagnosis is not easy and sometimes remains unclear despite the use of appropriate clinical tests and MRI examination.

Spontaneous resolve or remission has been noted. It is therefore recommended the use of special insoles and intermittent administration of anti-inflammatory drugs in early stages. In refractory cases operative resection of the affected nerve is chosen. The procedure is usually on the dorsal aspect of the foot and seldom on the plantar. Some people may notice a slight residual numbness of the interdigital area which is never a real problem.

Surgery is done under regional anesthesia. Weight bearing is allowed immediately. Recurrence, although noted, is uncommon.