“Do not think nothing is happening simply because you don’t see your growth... great things grow in silence.” (Buddha, 563–483 B.C.) In Greek culture, beauty and harmony were synonymous with balance. In the wise Taoist doctrine, yin and yang establish the meaning of life through their equilibrium. Similarly, in orthopedics, the foot can be seen as a wonderful manifestation of our body's balance. Poor posture or repeated activities can compromise our health and lead to degenerative conditions such as Morton's neuroma. This detailed article aims to explore its causes, symptoms, and possible treatments and therapies.
1. ETYMOLOGY AND SYNONYMS
Neuroma: The word "neuroma" comes from the Greek roots νεῦρον / neuron (nerve) and the suffix - ομα / -oma (biological mass, potentially cancerous). It refers primarily to a benign tumor, cyst, or granuloma affecting a nerve.
Morton: Named after American surgeon Thomas G. Morton (1835–1903), who first studied this foot condition in 1876.
Synonyms: Interdigital neuroma, plantar neuroma.
2. DEFINITION:
Morton's neuroma is a degenerative thickening or fibrosis around the third and fourth phalanges of the foot, primarily caused by chronic compression in the metatarsal area. Symptoms may include burning, itching, or numbness in the affected toes. This painful condition often occurs in the forefoot, with the third and fourth toes being affected in 75% of cases, and the second and third toes in 17% of cases.
4. ETIOLOGY: CAUSES AND RISK FACTORS
Morton's neuroma is primarily caused by unnatural or asymmetric tension in the metatarsal area, with risk factors including:
- Inappropriate footwear (e.g., high heels or tight shoes).
- Biomechanical deformities (e.g., hammer toe, flat feet).
- Ligament entrapment.
- Repetitive movements with improper posture.
- Gender (more common in women).
5. TREATMENTS AND THERAPIES:
- Lifestyle changes: Healthier habits and ergonomic footwear.
- Orthotic insoles: Reduce pressure on the interdigital nerve.
- Anti-inflammatories: Relieve pain and swelling.
- Ice massages and physiotherapy.
- Injections and surgery as a last resort.
6. CONCLUSIONS
Like any physical pathology affecting humans, Morton's neuroma is multifaceted but univocally interpretable if its essence is understood. The Latins used to say, "gutta cavat lapidem," meaning a drop of water can create fissures in rocks. If we managed to live a conscious and balanced life (even in posture), we could prevent or at least slow down Morton's neuroma. Wearing uncomfortable shoes may benefit aesthetics but contributes little to our health. Competing athletically while repeating unnatural imbalances will eventually compromise our health, much like the relentless drop of water against the sturdy rock. It is within our power to change our lives effectively, starting with more conscious and "balanced" walking.
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