Looking for relief from Morton's neuroma without jumping straight to surgery? Medical devices can be a game-changer for managing that persistent foot pain.
From custom orthotic insoles to simple toe separators and night splints, let me walk you through the most effective devices that could help take the pressure off those irritated nerves and get you back to comfortable walking.
A wide variety of medical devices exist for treating Morton’s neuroma. Let’s go over what you need to know about some of these devices.
You’re probably familiar with orthotic insoles, which add cushioning below your soles beyond what is already in your shoes.
Some insoles include built-in metatarsal pads. These pads support the bones that join your toes to the middle of your feet. You also can purchase them separately.
As not everyone likes metatarsal pads, you may want to try separate ones before buying insoles that have them built-in.
If you need more customization in fit than you get from an over-the-counter set of inserts and pads, you can get prescription customized inserts and pads.
Look for ample cushioning as well as technology that improves shock-absorption when you choose your inserts and pads.
If you are experiencing problems with toe alignment, wearing toe separators, also called toe spacers, can help you out.
They come in different shapes and sizes. Materials may include plastic, cloth, or “gel” spacers.
Make sure that you are getting the right size toe spacers for your individual feet, and that they fit comfortably.
If they do not, they could misalign your toes instead of align them. Also ensure that the spacers you purchase are durable, so you do not have to keep replacing them.
Along with helping patients with Morton’s neuroma, toe spacers can also help with hammertoes, bunions, or toes that overlap.
Compression socks and sleeves may be beneficial to patients with Morton’s neuroma. They can temporarily alleviate pain, discomfort, and swelling.
They also can reduce strain on muscles when exercising.
You can also get compression socks in different materials, such as polyester, nylon, bamboo, spandex, etc. Choose a material you find comfortable and breathable, and that you are not allergic to.
Put the socks on when you wake up. Wear them throughout the day, and take them off when you are ready to sleep.
A night splint is a device you can wear while sleeping to alleviate pain in your heel or the arch of your foot.
Foot stretchers are devices you can use while you are exercising to help you increase flexibility in your foot.
Many people find relief from nerve pain through cold therapy. An ice pack can be stored in the freezer and used periodically throughout the day.
A cold massage roller ball device is also helpful for some people.
One thing to keep in mind about cold is that while it can numb your nerves, it also tends to make muscles more stiff.
Heat therapy can soften stiff muscles. So, you might try alternating between cold and warm therapy.
Whether you want to do some exercises to relieve your condition or you just need to get around more comfortably, you should invest in the right shoes for Morton’s neuroma.
Exercise can provide significant relief from Morton’s neuroma, and may help you to avoid surgery. So, if you can do it, you should.
The shoes we recommend are the Cadense Original Adaptive shoes. These shoes for Morton’s neuroma feature patented variable friction technology to “glide” over uneven surfaces. They also feature wide designs, lightweight materials, and comfortable cushioning.