While the exact cause of Morton’s neuroma is not known, it is associated with repetitive running or jumping motions where the foot strikes with such compressive force that the medial and lateral plantar nerve is irritated and its connective tissue sheath thickens. This thickening of the nerve sheath places continual pressure on the nerve and leads to the symptoms experienced between the 3rd and 4th toes.  This area of the foot is most susceptible because the space between these toes is the smallest and there is a nerve bundle created by the lateral plantar nerve and the medial plantar nerve coming together at this location. 

Morton’s Neuroma has also been associated with narrow toed shoes that place compressive force on the nerves as well, with high heels being twice as bad because of the increased hyperextension of the toes due to the greater angle of the foot.  This could also be why Women are more prone to this affliction.  Another possible cause of Morton’s Neuroma can be fractures of the toes or ligament damage that produce scar tissue, which will entrap the nerves and also bring about the symptoms.  Even tension up the leg in the Hamstrings and Calf Muscles can pull and compress the nerves and increase the risk of entrapment.

The Good News is that several different studies have found that Massage Therapy can relieve the painful symptoms of Morton’s Neuroma by reducing Scar Tissue and Inflammation of the Nerve Sheath in the foot. Swedish Massage applied to the entire posterior aspect of the leg can also have a profound affect on the functioning of the nerves that terminate in the toes. From the glutes and deep lateral rotators, to the hamstrings and all the plantar flexors (gastrocnemius, soleus, tibialis posterior, and the deep toe flexors), massage can reduce muscle tension and release fascial restrictions, both of which can allow the affected nerve tissue to function more freely.  Changing footwear and minimizing any repetitive jumping or running movements that compress the nerves is also very important at the beginning of treatment until the pain has ceased, but with these modifications and regular Massage, your Morton’s Neuroma can be alleviated.

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