At Shoreline Orthopaedics, our orthopaedic surgeons use a truly collaborative approach so our patients have the benefit of multiple expert opinions, without having to go elsewhere to obtain them.
Shoreline Orthopaedics provides more comprehensive services, state-of-the-art options, technologies and techniques than anyone else in the area.
The following information is provided to help you understand what you can expect from us regarding policies and procedures, and also what is expected of you before and after treatment or procedures.
The following information is provided to help you gain a better understanding of anatomy, terminology, certain orthopaedic procedures, and more. If you have any questions, feel free to ask your physician.
Nearly one-fourth of all bones in the human body are in the feet. The foot is a complex, flexible structure that contains bones, joints, and more than 100 muscles, tendons and ligaments, all working together to enable movement and balance. The foot is divided into three sections:
Difficulties with foot position and function can lead to more serious problems, not only for the feet, but also for other areas, including the spine. In some cases, these problems may be caused by footwear that fits improperly, does not accommodate normal foot alignment, or that interferes with natural movement and balance of the body.
A benign tumor of a nerve is called a neuroma, however, Morton's neuroma is not actually a tumor—it is a thickening of the tissue that surrounds the digital nerve leading to the toes. Morton's neuroma most frequently develops between the third and fourth toes, and occurs where the nerve passes under the ligament connecting the toe bones (metatarsals) in the forefoot.
Morton's neuroma usually develops in response to irritation, trauma or excessive pressure.
Persistent pain in the ball of the foot, or a feeling similar to "walking on a marble" are commonly associated with Morton's neuroma. Additional symptoms may include:
Initial therapies for Morton's neuroma are nonsurgical, relatively simple, and may involve one or more of the following:
Several studies have shown that a combination of roomier, more comfortable shoes, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medication (NSAID)s, custom foot orthoses, and cortisone injections provide relief in over 80% of people with Morton's Neuroma. If appropriate, a foot and ankle conditioning program may be recommended.
If conservative, nonsurgical treatment does not relieve your symptoms, your orthopaedic surgeon may discuss surgical options with you. Surgery may be performed to resect a small portion of the nerve or release the tissue around the nerve, and generally involves a short recovery period.
With any surgery there are some risks, and these vary from person to person. Complications are typically minor, treatable and unlikely to affect your final outcome. Your orthopaedic surgeon will speak to you prior to surgery to explain any potential risks and complications that may be associated with your procedure.