Do You have a Mortons Neuroma?
Introduction
If you’re experiencing a sore forefoot and have been diagnosed with Morton’s neuroma, you’re not alone. This common foot condition can be painful and disrupt your daily activities. However, there is hope and effective ways to manage it without entirely relying on orthotics. In this blog post, we bring you expert advice and exercises to help relieve pain and improve foot function.
What is Morton’s Neuroma?
Morton’s neuroma involves an inflamed nerve located under the forefoot. This condition can be intensely painful, sometimes escalating abruptly. It’s crucial to address both the symptoms and the underlying causes to find relief.
Common Causes and Initial Assessment
As revealed through the case study of a teacher with neuromas in both feet, neuromas can often arise from compensation for foot and ankle misalignment. When a foot functions improperly, it can lead to inflammation of the nerves. Correcting this misalignment is essential for alleviating pain and resuming normal activities.
Comprehensive Treatment Approaches
- Manual Therapy: Gentle hands-on techniques can improve the alignment of the foot and ankle, reducing nerve agitation. This approach is often coupled with specific exercises designed to enhance foot function.
- Laser Therapy: Utilizing laser therapy can significantly accelerate the healing process by regenerating nerve tissue and reducing inflammation. If laser therapy is unavailable, acupuncture can serve as an alternative intervention.
Exercises to Try at Home
Exercises play a vital role in managing Morton’s neuroma. Here are a few recommendations to try at home:
- Say Your Prayers Exercise: This exercise helps elevate the metatarsal heads, reducing pressure on the affected nerve. Start by kneeling with your toes pushed back and slowly sit back on your heels for about 20 seconds.
- Dowel Exercise: Using a broomstick or mop, roll the foot backwards from behind the affected area to relieve tightness. Begin with one foot, and increase to both feet as your comfort level improves.
- Calf Stretching: Stretching the calves is critical because a tight posterior chain exacerbates the pressure on the neuroma. Stretch your calves by leaning against a wall for 30 seconds, several times daily.
Conclusion
Morton’s neuroma can be challenging, but with the right approach, it’s possible to mitigate the pain and maintain an active life. These strategies aim to enhance foot function and reduce reliance on orthotics, offering more freedom with your footwear choices. Remember, individual advice from a qualified professional is always recommended. For personalized treatment, consider scheduling a foot pain assessment for tailored support.
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