NHS Mortons Neuroma | Deeping Surgical

What is a Morton's Neuroma?

Morton’s neuroma is a painful condition affecting the ball of the foot, most commonly between the third and fourth toes. It involves thickening of tissue around a nerve, leading to irritation or compression.

Symptoms Include:

Burning pain or tingling in the toes

Feeling of walking on a pebble

Numbness in the forefoot

When Should I Seek Treatment?

You should consider treatment if:

Pain persists or worsens with walking

Conservative treatment has failed

You experience numbness or sharp pain in the toes

What is the NHS Criteria for this procedure?

Morton’s Neuroma *For this procedure you should complete a prior approvals request, and once this is granted you should use the acceptance letter and send it with the referral for surgery* (Prior approval is not required for an injection)

The ICB will only fund treatment for Morton’s Neuroma where all the following criteria are met:

After recommended conservative management measures recommended have failed

AND
There is significant pain on walking with neurological signs

Can It Be Treated Without Surgery?

Yes. Conservative options include:

Footwear modification

Orthotic inserts

Corticosteroid injections

Activity modification

What is Morton's Neuroma Surgery?

This involves removing the affected portion of the nerve or releasing tight ligaments. It's performed under local or regional anaesthetic and typically takes less than 1 hour.

What to Expect Before and After Surgery

Before Surgery:

You will have a consultation with the Surgeon immediately prior to the procedure to discuss the risks and benefits.

You can eat and drink as normal on the day of the procedure.

If you take any blood thinning medication, it is important that you advise the Admin team prior to your appointment.

Please remove any jewellery from the foot having the procedure and to reduce the risk of infection, nail polish should be removed from both feet.

After Surgery:

Your foot will be bandaged and you will be given instructions on wound care. Keep the foot elevated as much as possible for the first 72 hours.

Mild pain and swelling are common but should improve over time. Over-the-counter painkillers such as paracetamol and ibuprofen are recommended for the first 24-48 hours.

What Are the Risks?

Scar sensitivity

Persistent numbness in the toes

Infection

Return of symptoms (rare)

How Do I Prepare?

Medications: Inform the Surgeon about all medications and supplements you are taking

Wear open or supportive footwear

Transportation: Arrange for someone to drive you home post Avoid driving immediately after the procedure

Home Preparations: Set up a comfortable recovery are with necessary supplies within easy reach.

Patients Asking a doctor Questions _edit

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How long does the procedure take?

A: Usually 30 minutes.

Q: How soon will I recover?
A: for the first 14 days, elevate your foot whenever possible. You may walk on your heel and then resume walking as the pain allows.

Q: When can I start to drive?

A: As soon as you feel safe to do so and can press the pedals without pain.