Morton’s Neuroma

Clearwater, Tampa, St Petersburg, Florida

Morton’s neuroma is a foot condition that results from chronic irritation of the plantar digital nerve in the foot. It usually occurs in the second or third web spaces radiating to the toes. Sometimes the condition is diffusely painful and patients may complain of not only foot pain but also ankle pain if it radiates proximally. The nerve can become irritated when:

• It is entrapped by fibrosis
• There is scarring around the nerve
• Degenerative arthritis of the bones is present
• An intermetatarsal bursitis is present

Morton’s neuroma is common with long-term wearing of improperly fitted shoes and is frequently seen in women as a result of wearing certain types of high heeled shoes. It can usually be diagnosed by a careful clinical examination. Radiographic studies can show degeneration and an MRI can show other etiologies such as bursitis, scarring or degeneration of the bone.

Treatment for Morton’s Neuroma

Treatment for Morton’s neuroma is usually conservative with physical medicine modalities, possible modifying footwear. In severe cases, surgical intervention may be necessary. Localized injections with anesthetic and corticosteroids may help control inflammation, and thus reduce pain.

If Morton’s neuroma is due to degeneration of the bones or scarring fibrotic tissue, platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and stem cell therapy may help to diminish or regenerate the evolved area. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and stem cell therapy are regenerative medicine techniques which may regenerate tissues that are chronically irritated and inflamed or undergoing degeneration or scarring.

With platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy, the healing and growth factors in a person’s own blood are captured and injected into the injured area. This may help to heal the damaged tissue more quickly.

Additionally, stem cell technology can help regenerate damaged tissue. Stem cells can be processed from a person’s own fat cells or bone marrow. Once processed, the stem cells are directed into the injured tissue using a variety of techniques.

Platelet-rich plasma and stem cell therapy are innovative and cutting-edge treatment techniques that may help repair chronic or acutely damaged tendon and muscle problems.

If you suffer with Morton’s neuroma and your current treatment plan leaves you feeling hopeless, perhaps a fresh set of experienced eyes can change your outlook.  Since 1990, Dennis M. Lox, M.D has applied his personal interests in sports medicine, cutting-edge regenerative medicine and chronic pain management to helping patients increase their quality of life. Contact us for an appointment at 727-462-5582.

Dennis M. Lox, MD, and the Florida Spine Center serve patients within the greater Tampa Bay area, including Clearwater, Tampa and St. Petersburg, as well as all of Florida and the US.

All statements, information or opinions provided by this website are provided for educational purposes only. We do not diagnose nor treat through this website or by telephone. As you consider any treatment, discuss them with your physician.

Regarding platelet-rich plasma or stem cell therapy: Neither statements nor treatments have been evaluated by the FDA. We do not claim that these treatments work for any listed or unlisted condition. Patient testimonials offer only the patient’s impression of how a therapy worked for them – individual results will vary; results are not guaranteed nor warranteed. As you consider any treatment, discuss them with your physician.