10Jul

Morton’s neuroma can be a debilitating condition characterized by pain, numbness, and tingling in the foot. Many physiotherapists suggest individuals with Morton’s neuroma practice some exercises.

You may ask how exercises will be helpful in alleviating pain. While exercise may not offer a cure, it can be vital in managing symptoms and improving overall foot health. 

Heel Raises

Heel raises are a simple yet effective exercise technique to strengthen the calf muscles and improve foot flexibility. To do this, 

– Stand upright, facing a wall for support.

– Lift onto the balls of your feet, then lower the heels back to the floor.

– Perform this exercise rapidly to engage calf muscles and enhance foot flexibility.

Plantar Fascia Massage

Plantar fascia massage is a therapeutic technique designed to alleviate tension and discomfort in the foot, which is particularly beneficial for individuals experiencing conditions like Morton’s neuroma.

  1. Sit in a chair and place a spikey ball on the floor.
  2. Gently roll the affected foot over the ball, focusing on softer areas.
  3. Apply moderate pressure to ease tension and discomfort in the plantar fascia.

Toe Flexion/Extension

By briskly bending and straightening the toes while lying down or sitting, these exercises help loosen tight muscles, alleviate discomfort, and promote better foot function.

  1. While lying down or sitting, briskly bend and straighten your toes.
  2. This exercise helps improve mobility and flexibility in the foot.

Heel Raised with Plantar Fascia Stretch

Combining the benefits of strengthening and stretching, the heel raise with plantar fascia stretch is a valuable exercise for individuals managing conditions like Morton’s neuroma. 

  1. Stand on one leg with the forefoot on the edge of a step and a towel roll under the toes.
  2. Push up onto your toes, hold briefly, then lower the heel to stretch the plantar fascia.

Toe Gripping a Towel

Toe gripping a towel is a simple yet effective exercise technique aimed at strengthening the muscles of the foot, particularly beneficial for individuals with conditions like Morton’s neuroma.  

  1. Sit or stand with your foot at one end of a towel.
  2. Curl your toes to grip and crumple the towel toward you, then relax and repeat.

Consultation and Personalized Plans

While these exercises can be beneficial, it is crucial to consult a healthcare professional before starting any new regimen, especially if you have specific injuries or conditions. Nerve specialists can provide personalized guidance and tailor exercises to suit individual needs and abilities.

To conclude  Don’t let Morton’s Neuroma affect your mobility. Contact professional Nerve specialists today to start your journey toward improved foot health and overall well-being

10Jul

Foot pain and discomfort can arise from various conditions like Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome (TTS) and Morton’s Neuroma. 

While Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome and Morton’s Neuroma may share some symptoms, their underlying causes, anatomical locations, and diagnostic approaches differ. 

You should clearly understand the differences between these two conditions to choose an accurate diagnosis and effective management. Here, we have briefly distinguished between them. 

Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome:

Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome occurs when the tibial nerve becomes compressed or entrapped as it passes through the tarsal tunnel, a narrow space located inside the ankle. 

This compression can lead to pain, tingling, numbness, and other abnormal sensations in the foot and ankle.

Key Characteristics of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome:

1. Nerve Entrapment: TTS is primarily characterized by the entrapment of the tibial nerve within the tarsal tunnel, affecting both sensory and motor functions of the foot.

2. Anatomical Factors: Structural abnormalities, such as flat feet, bony prominences, or cysts within the tarsal tunnel, can contribute to nerve compression and the development of TTS.

3. Symptoms: Classic symptoms of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome include foot pain, tingling sensations, numbness, burning sensations, and swelling in the affected area.

4. Diagnostic Tools: Diagnosis often involves a combination of clinical evaluation, electromyography (EMG) studies, and imaging tests to assess nerve function and identify potential anatomical abnormalities.

Morton’s Neuroma:

Morton’s Neuroma is a condition characterized by the thickening of the tissue around one of the nerves leading to the toes, most commonly between the third and fourth toes. 

This enlargement or swelling of the nerve can result in pain, discomfort, and a sensation of walking on a pebble or a fold in the sock.

Key Characteristics of Morton’s Neuroma:

1. Nerve Enlargement: Morton’s Neuroma typically involves the enlargement or thickening of the interdigital nerve, often due to chronic compression or irritation.

2. Location: The most common site of involvement is between the third and fourth toes, although it can occur between other toes as well.

3. Symptoms: Patients with Morton’s Neuroma may experience sharp, shooting pain in the forefoot, a sensation of walking on a lump or a foreign object, and numbness or tingling in the affected toes.

4. Diagnostic Tools: Diagnosis often relies on a thorough clinical examination. It includes physical tests such as Mulder’s sign, as well as imaging studies like ultrasound or MRI to visualize the nerve enlargement.

Summing up

Opting for immediate medical evaluation from a healthcare professional specializing in foot and ankle conditions is essential for the right diagnosis and appropriate management tailored to each individual’s needs.