Morton's Neuroma and Metatarsalgia: What's the Difference?

[@brianrichards7006]

This is an informative video. No one else has explained the difference between Morton's neuroma and Metatarsalgia. I'm going to try putting a pad just behind the metatarsals. I think that's what you meant when you said "putting a piece behind the metatarsals", but not sure. Thank you again.

[@banannalouise]

This was VERY helpful to help me understand the metatarsalgia that I have! My podiatrist never quite explained it well with me, and imo, an important part of a dr’s job is to educate…especially when the issue will be chronic, ongoing, and there are things the patient could do to alleviate. This was nicely done. Thank you!

[@Ali-ct9pb]

That was a great explanation for me as well. I am 68 now. I was told in my early forties that I had a nerve neuroma, but wasn’t given this history of cause or symptoms. I could not wear shoes with little padding. I worked for the postal service and stood on concrete floors all day, other than occasional sitting. I was a window clerk, and mail processor clerk, and supply clerk along with many other duties. The discomfort only came when I had little padding in my shoe. I bought lots of different shoes. I usually hike a lot in the mountains, but my current work has me working half days and I can’t get out to the mountains. I work on concrete floors as a sales clerk and furniture painter. I have orthotics, but they end up hurting by the end of the day. I bought them at the Good Feet store years ago. I recently remembered that I had a hairline fracture in this foot when I was 13 years old. I broke the second toe from the big toe. Would this be possibly some arthritis in my foot? Is their any correlation between the two? My other foot is fine. My foot hurt so much yesterday that i took some ibuprofen, rubbed arnica cream and placed a hot rice bag on it. It helps. None of my shoes help relieve the pain. Just being barefooted helps. Usually. But not yesterday. I’m up late waiting for the pain to go away. I ended up with a Charlie horse. I drank some Calm, for the magnesium. I’m feeling better, but hoping I feel better later today. It’s 3:00 am now for me. Thanks if you are still answering these comments. I see this is from 4 years ago. I saw a reference to one of your other videos. Watched it. I will try your recommendation. Thank you. This was very helpful to understand.

[@shannon9913]

Could be plantar fasciitis. I wear Hoka Bondi 8s with an orthotic insole. It also sounds like you should see an orthopedist and get imaging for a clearer understanding. They may recommend physical therapy

[@cluisap]

I've been for YEARS with this situation, trying to get a diagnosis with all types of doctors(many) looking to get help, I, even had acupuncture. I had x-rays and mri. All the results were normal, images didn't show any problems with my feet. But I keep having pain and discomforts. Until today I've heard about Mortons Neuroma on the news. I said, "BINGO, that's what I'm feeling on my feet." Thank you for the clear explanation. I'm going to talk with my chiropractor to see if he can help me on that. ❤

[@dennisboswell1928]

Great video! I completely understand the difference between the two. Thanks Doctor.

[@OrthoEvalPal]

Glad it was helpful Dennis!

[@ewanmc1110]

Really love ur clear explanations. If u use better camera for filming, it would be nicer. Thanks a lot.

[@sirslickrock]

In regards to Metatarsalgia (the second one)I have what I have to say is beyond a severe case of it…. When I join the service I lost a lot of sensation in the bottom of my feet do the running, marching/rucking, all that usual Marine and Army stuff (I was in both branches). While I was in my boot and foot was pierced by jagged/pointy rebar. Days later I was hastily patched up and resumed the mission. Years later, I got out of Active Duty, the sensation started to come back, but also pain where and how you described along with a circular scar in the same spot. I had a surgery in the Reserves for it but that failed. And before I could get a follow-up, my time was up and I had to get out. (I couldn’t run for any sustained distance or even do push ups because of the strain on my feet). Since then, my wife and I have been getting the scar tissue out with a scalpels and other various tools. My question is: other than trying to get another surgery; What are some other methods I can use to correct this issue?

[@katherinedobias7499]

you can look at injections.

[@mk_ultrarunner]

I've been to an ortho and podiatrist. Ortho said I had a sprain and podiatrist said I had capsulitis of the MTP joint with possible AVR. I had Xrays twice, neither showing a stress fracture. I mentioned Morton's Neuroma b/c I get numbness and tingling with occasional jolt twinges that run through my foot spawning from the 3rd toe. I also mention Metatarsalgia. I believe I maybe did have a strain from sprints, but resulted b/c of metatarsalgia. Pain is felt top and bottom of the metatarsal head at the third toe. I have been breaking in some orthotics and they seem to help and taking a 5 day pack of steroids for the inflammation in the joint. I'm also using meta pads in my other shoes, but they seem to put more pressure on the PF at the arch and hurt a bit. So I'm wondering if I also have MN as well b/c of the numbness/tingling. Would an MRI show all these problems? And do I have to wear an ortho forever? Should I wear in both shoes too? I am long distance ultra-runner as well.

[@danielszczepankiewicz6650]

Thank you, this helps to explain why my foot started hurting and now I can follow up with my PCM.

[@OrthoEvalPal]

I wouldn't worry about it but should bring it up the next time you see your doctor. Some people have this with no underlying issues

[@rosiegonzalez7433]

Not to be disrespectful but I was diagnosed with Morton’s neuroma and I started researching and found a Dr in Florida that does cryosurgery. I haven’t had it done yet but he treats it outpatient in the office with no stitching and is a good option if we don’t want cutting and stitching in a hospital!

[@bobc.5698]

I've had metatarsalgia now.. going on 6 years. It doesn't go away....ever. The top of my foot is sensitive to having a shoe on also.

[@R-Lee-]

Maybe not for you but for other people it does

[@JoeMurphysGuitarlessons]

I’m having the same problem Bob, had it for months, driving me crazy

[@KallutoZoldyck]

Maybe transition to minimalist shoes very slowly and perhaps then it will fade from your foot being stronger. Don't expect this to be a painless transition though.

[@VisaFan81]

1.5 year for me, using $8 pads i put in my shoes reduces the pain significantly, you can find them on amazon search for "Pedag Drop Anatomically Correct Metatarsal Arch Pads", make sure you DON'T put them where the pain is, i need be placed where the arch of the foot is. hope this helps with your issue

[@_INFINI_]

You might have Morton's neuroma too

[@officialbreakfastwithbei778]

You’re a really great teacher. Thank you

[@Desaundrea]

Hi Doc. Thank you for this video. I am a type 2 diabetic who recently noticed this pain in my foot 🦶🏽. My whole foot was burning yet “itchy” at the same time. Just the left foot. This event happened for a total of I do have neuro injury’s in my C spine and L spine, all the way to S1, but I only felt nerve issue in the left foot only

[@OrthoEvalPal]

So Mary Ann, there are many diagnoses to consider here and would be unfair to guess without a full examination

[@فاضلصباح-ت2خ]

مرحبا دكتور ارجو منك ان تجيبني إن قدمي يألمني منذ ٤ أعوام وعملت فحص ايكو ولم يضهر اي شي ولكن الدكتور يقول هذا مورتو ويجب أن أعمل العمليه وانا لا اريد العمليه بماذا تنصحني وشكرا

[@crispycruiser4654]

I think the thing everybody is wondering is what is the recovery time on this? I've been dealing with it on both feet for a few months now (too many heel raises) and nothing works. It's not getting better and I've thrown the kitchen sink at it including expensive cash pay treatments like shockwave. This is very frustrating.

[@god-inspiredpeacecontentme6162]

I have researched the forefoot pain issues I have. I believe metatarsalgia is my likely diagnosis. In addition to severe pain felt most severely in my second toe metatarsal areas, I also have numbness primarily in the larger toes and forefoot areas and get severe needle stabbing pain mostly in my left big toe at night. I suppose this means there is nerve irritation. My podiatrist and PCP were not helpful, I believe I know how to treat myself now. Dancers pads, ice compresses, metatarsal cushions, ibuprofen, rest.

[@renren7233]

I have been diagnosed a Mortons neuroma, but I think it is Metatarsalgia. I don't have pain when they squeese my foot , the pain is when they squeese below my foot/ on the ball of the foot. It hurts really much when I walk barefoot.

[@Travelinalong5553]

Did u have a mri

[@rexbabyrabbits]

Bursitis can form in the forefoot as well

[@d.o.smiles4836]

This is fantastic! Thanks for the thorough information!

[@Z06ChevyVette]

Great demonstration video!🤙🏼 I’m pretty sure I know now what condition I have!! I’ve gained about 20-30 pounds in the past two years due to retirement, I had a knee accident involving a broken tibia and meniscus and possibly my gait is off.

[@OrthoEvalPal]

Thank you! Good luck!

[@raymondclark1657]

Thank you for this informative video, which explains better than just reading an article. I like idea of of arch support up and below the ball of the foot. I think my problem is more Metatarsalgia. I live in Mexico, Cement floors with tiles.

[@OrthoEvalPal]

Thanks Raymond! Yes, hard surfaces, tight calves, shoewear are all contributors

[@Neverloerchky]

I finally understand my problem. I have that irritation, all along the top of my foot over met heads. Worse with shoes on like a vise

[@williamnelson609]

Thanks for the explanation of the differences. Can you describe the orthotic you would use for Metatarsalgia?

[@OrthoEvalPal]

I will do my best in a future video. I have it on my list.

[@marysarala4256]

Thanks for ur explanation.....plz tell the treatment (exercise, massage, application)

[@luckyone4881]

Best content explaining this subject FINALLY and thank you. How do you cure both issues???

[@sweet_pea1188]

What will happen if you don’t treat either of them ? Can it start on the top of the foot and then move to the bottom of the foot? What’s the best way to treat it at home with someone who doesn’t have insurance?

[@jaylanbaker5559]

Currently going through the same thing rn in my left foot not knowing if it’s either or. It’s Hard for me to lift my foot upwards towards my shin as well. Any updates on what you’ve done to treat it?

[@opeyemiabifarin2273]

Thank you for this video, educative 🙏🏽.

[@muhammedjabir8249]

Very well explained

[@-living4jesus4ever-]

What are the top tips then for metatarsalgia?

[@BryanMilsted]

Excellent explanation 👍

[@OrthoEvalPal]

Thank you!

[@yeah112358]

Thanks for this. I was diagnosed with Mortons Neuroma several years back after training for my 2nd half marathon. I was really bummed. I had the exact symptoms you described. I got steroid shots in the affected area. The doc said to back off high impact activity, but I could do elliptical type stuff. It did get better after I stopped running and switched to lower impact stuff. But the pain is starting to come back now after a couple years-even on the elliptical. I don't remember my doc mentioning a tight calf. I'll have to try some calf stretches and see if that helps. Thanks.

[@OrthoEvalPal]

Best of luck!

[@jjdiddle7150]

Roll your foot out with the lacrosse ball first thing in the morning for one minute each foot. I also have been wearing barefoot shoes and doing a lot of calf raises with the shoes and it seems to help.

[@samon4501]

Try zero drop shoes like Altra

[@xsavalos]

May be time to stop the impact. Weight training or just walking.

[@akkuverma2328]

Hi,do these stretches help?

[@paulawilson5926]

The pain I have is electrical shocks when my toes are squeezed together. The only shoes I can wear are a certain kind of Nike flip-flops that are hard to find. The cushion and tight fit on my narrow feet make it bearable to walk. I have not gone barefoot in 20 years. I have neuromas in both of my feet same area. I also suffer from sciatic nerve pain and inflammation and also suffer electrical shock pain from my ulnar nerves in both elbows. I have internal vibrations from the waist down. I feel like the vibration from a cell phone is how I can describe the vibrations. I have had 2 lumbar spinal fusions. I have suffered from all this since I was 16.

[@joshe3713]

Thank you , you may have shown me that I have gout instead of metatarsalgia

[@karenimran3349]

I had a steroid injection last week for Morton’s Neuroma. Wow!! It’s a painful condition. I get burning sensation in my feet at night. I developed this due to breaking my foot and suffering five fractures.

[@sineadsheridan6305]

Im getting one next week , has it worked for you at all ?????

[@karenimran3349]

@@sineadsheridan6305sorry I’ve just seen your question. The first injection didn’t help . The second one did as it was done with ultrasound, so the scan pinpointed where the neuroma was, and that injection helped.

[@CajunPride777]

Helpful video thanks for sharing👍. I do have a question though. Can metatarsalgia cause numbing and shooting pains up the leg? My pain started under my big toe(sole) then moved to the pinky toe on the ball of my foot. I don't have insurance so I'm trying to find as much information on it as I can.

[@blake5318]

So I've recently been diagnosed with both metatarsalgia and multiple neuromas, plantar fasciitis, bunions and hammer toes.... I've been getting injections in the tops of my feet every two weeks, I wear a daytime brace and a night time splint

[@OrthoEvalPal]

That is a lot for someone so young. Are you in custom orthotics?

[@daboxer181]

Do you have videos about treatment for metatarsalga? Based on your description I know that's exactly what I have

[@OrthoEvalPal]

Here you go. Metatarsal Pad (Correct Placement) kzbin.info/www/bejne/g4S8q5eKm8iWsKM

[@pollytyra2428]

​@@OrthoEvalPal11am

[@willmcelroy6376]

Hi, thanks for your informative videos and thanks to your model for helping. I was recently diagnosed with metatarsalgia, however, I fear I’ve been misdiagnosed as my symptoms are more like Morton neuroma. I have this bunched up sock feeling between my first and second toe. I have flat/wide feet as well. Overweight. Made the mistake of trying to go for a run after years of walking. It’s been about 8 weeks now, but diagnosed about 4 weeks ago. I ice it, take sulondac. When I stay off it, it seems things are better, but as soon as I walk barefoot on flat surface, for even 5 minutes, it goes back to original, like I haven’t been treating it at all. I purchased orthotic with metatarsal dome, and that helps when I wear it. Any advice? How long do you think this will take to heal? Can I start going for daily walks again if I use orthotic with metatarsal dome? Or should I just stay off of it for a while? If so how long? I saw a podiatrist, but she wasn’t much help, and short on advice. She Just told me to buy a metatarsal pad and ice it, with prescription of sulindac . The ice doesn’t seem to help. Kind regards. Will

[@crispycruiser4654]

He’s not going to answer a dozen questions for free without an evaluation. How is he going to tell a random person online how long it's going to take to heal or how long you should stay off it? You need to keep looking for a doctor and pay them to answer these questions.

[@jefflayne7749]

I'm a 59 year old male and I drive a commercial vehicle every day and wear hiking boots to work in. I have developed toe pain in my 3rd and 4th toe. It hurts more when I bend my toe downward. As well in the ball of my foot by the toes gets like a dude ache.

[@barrontael7109]

Yes please use a mic so we can learn your knowledge 😉

[@MrMatthew7390]

Quick question and I’m not sure if you got the answer. When I get home and take off my work boots. I get a cramp type thing between my big toe and the toe next to it(in that general area) and the only way to relieve it is by standing up with my full body weight on my feet.

[@7777drummer]

I've been having pain in the toes of my right foot for a few years. I also have some pain under the ball of the foot too. I think I better try calf stretches more and maybe an orthotic.

[@fherrera6812]

Great explanation.

[@pugfan6732]

Hello, I have Mortons Nuroma & Metatalsalgia in both feet. 😔 I also have hammer toe on my left foot toe next to the big toe! I have lymphedema & lipedema in both legs along with varicose veins in my right calf only for now...not in my left calf. There is a warm to the touch & hard patch of skin on the back of my calf on my right leg..it does not hurt at all. It is not a blood clot..because I've had on of those back in 2002 & it was due to a birth control pill I was on at that time. I'm no longer on any birth control..I'm now going through menopause years. 😐

[@patriciascott4211]

I have metasarsalgia and Morton’s Neuroma for about 8 years. But I haven’t worn heels in about 25 years because I also have plantar fasciitis and Sinus Tarsi syndrome. My poor size 10.5 wide feet are a mess. I had surgery for Plantar Fasciitis about 12 years ago which helped but it’s back. I’m a hospital employee on my feet a lot. I am having Metatarsal surgery in 2 weeks on one foot. I’m a little nervous

[@seechangenyc280]

TY! I have both (and have for three years). Painful! I fear I will finally have to give up my daily, 1-hour Vinyasa yoga class (I started doing three a day during the pandemic for a year - and finally reduced to one). Though many moves pull/push on the neuromas (2), my foot doesn't hurt after, just when I walk outside after. I assume this is transference? Is this forever (as I know neuromas don't disappear), though the pain comes and goes and I can't predict trigger? I stopped yoga for a month (a huge loss on so many levels) and am still suffering. So maybe yoga isn't the culprit? A low drop sneaker is offering some relief with a new orthotic and a carefully placed metatarsalgia pad. Modifying is hard because the flow is the high. Strangely, the only shoes that solve the walking issue are Brirkenstocks - lower the heel an embedded metatarsalgia pad in midfoot...Super frustrated. I'll take whatever wisdom you have to offer to get me back to my mat!

[@blackout2430]

Any progress? I feel the same. It comes and goes

[@Travelinalong5553]

When I wake up Im fine, but an hour later my foot is bad again. I am going to have an MRI on Monday, I did have an injection, and orthotics were ordered. In the meantime I will try some calf stretching exercises..Im pretty much cripled. My question is, how should I walk when Im in pain? Because what I want to do is Limp around, its painful to put weight on the ball of my foot. Thanks for your videos

[@Traderjoe]

Did either the injection or the orthotics help? Is the pain gone? Thanks

[@bonnieoles4212]

Thank you for this video! I have pain on the bottom and side of my left foot starting from the middle of the foot and going up to the big toe. It's quite painful on the ball under the big toe. It's painful if I squeeze on the top and bottom of this area. Am going to see the foot dr. in 3 days. I sure hope we can fix this problem!

[@OrthoEvalPal]

Yes, that is a good plan and these things are manageable

[@derickhayward710]

I have a hard lump underneath the ball of my left foot. This is inbetween the 3 rd and 4 th toe. It definitely feels like I have a pebble underneath this area when I'm standing or walking. Could this be Mortons Neuroma?

[@akkuverma2328]

Hii,did I find any solution??

[@garywesthead8561]

That was a good one, lad, thanks...

[@nadinelai4575]

Thank you for your replies!

[@OrthoEvalPal]

You are welcome Nadine!

[@susancarter2870]

I have had the surgery before years ago .but it's back again .what I need to do go back to surgery again .can't walk on foot pain is a 10

[@Travelinalong5553]

Great video very informative

[@aleksandarmilanovic5697]

Thank you for your work. :)

[@OrthoEvalPal]

My pleasure! You are welcome Aleksander!

[@LostWithoutHer]

Hi Paul. Great video. Concise and complete. My question for you is, if I get a sharp momentary jolt of pain under the length of my left 'index' toe, with the first 2-3 steps out of bed in the morning, what is it? Toe and ankle dorsiflexion and plantarflexion are neither palliative nor provocative, nor pre-emptively preventative. Compression of the MTPs is neither palliative nor provocative and I don't have any 'pebble' or 'bunched up sock' sensations in the forefoot area either. That left 'index' toe, as I call it, is a bit longer than the big toe but that's symmetrical to the right, so, I'm confused. Thanks in advance!

[@sumanbhasker4348]

Very informative! Thank you.. do you think doing yoga can worsen metatarsalgia?

[@OrthoEvalPal]

Yes if you are spending a lot of time on the ball of the foot.

[@arungupta2276]

RAJSHRI commenting: I have Morton’s Neuroma on my right foot.. Cause could be standing spell..putting pressure more on the front as my house slippers have my toes print.. with coconut oil massage and hot and cold fomentation therapy as advised by my doctors and 🆘 pain killers it has much improved..only sad part is being a Indian Classical dancer, dancing or teaching dance probably won’t be possible.. Well informative video..as explained by my Doctors too.. Thank you

[@officialbreakfastwithbei778]

Loved this video

[@shirleybose3143]

thank you. good simple explanation. Phew.

[@jayanti2371]

*lateral foot arch??* first time I've ever heard this. seems important. thank you doc.

[@OrthoEvalPal]

Happy to help

[@ravenwyld]

I've had a ultrasound guided injection in my foot for Morton's nueroma in the past. My middle (I think) toe feels like I dropped a bowling ball on it but I can't see the local podiatrist until December. Hurts but kinda a radiating pain and spreading up to my ankle. So frustrating. 😭

[@OrthoEvalPal]

Sound like you definitely need it checked out, especially if it is going toward the ankle.

[@komalsharma2463]

Apply generous amount of pure mustard or castor oil all over the foot and ankle at bed time and massage gently. These oils are anti inflammatory and will heal the injury and stop the pain. Apply regularly and you’ll be fine. Also take one curcumin capsule a day after any meal of the day. Plus take half teaspoon methi plus ginger powder after lunch or dinner everyday

[@zaheer4534]

Hi.. thanks for useful info..I am having same issue for last two months.. at the moment I am taking medicine & given by soft shoes with gel inner sole.. my question is whether it is a life time issue or it can treated & I can be normal after sometime ? Mehdi Pakistan

[@xmenotux]

My podiatrist has told me I have Metatarsalgia, but I do get the numbness in my 3rd & 4th toes and I do have pain and inflammation between the bones on top of my foot. I also get the sensation like I'm stepping on a stone when I walk. I'm also experiencing something with my ankle and calf which may be causing or contributing to the problem. But it just sounds like I have more of a Neuroma as I have no pain in the joints at the bottom of my foot.

[@OrthoEvalPal]

Sounds like morton's to me. Could have a combo of both also

[@akkuverma2328]

Hi,I also feel stepping on a stone,do you found any solution?

[@rmmjr76]

I’ve been diagnosed having metatarsalgia and Morton’s neuroma since 2002. I had a medical discharge from the Army due to not able to walk without pain. My life ended up being a letter carrier for the past 20 years with the same diagnosis. I just learned to deal with it. 10 more years before retirement then I can put my feet up in the sunset.

[@karenimran3349]

Get a steroid injection but with ultrasound scan. That way they can pinpoint where the neuroma is. Doing it blind won’t help. It’s a very painful condition as I have it. Also another thing orthotics helps too. It cushions the foot.

[@susandesantell1379]

I went into a general practice doc and they looked for 2 seconds and said I have Morton’s Neuroma, but after looking at the symptoms/doing some research, I don’t think that’s what I have. (Based on location + I don’t have burning or numbness and I have lots of inflammation). I think it’s metatarsalgia. The pain is in my second toe (right next to my big toe) and runs straight down into the region below that toe. It’s super swollen and like a lump there and I couldn’t walk on it at all for 3 days. After icing/elevation/using anti-inflammatory EO’s on it, the swelling has decreased some and I can *almost* walk on it. Would love to hear your thoughts..? Thanks in advance!

[@dr.m.m.munshimunshi1729]

Sir, your video is extremely informative n lucid. I hv that pain of motor neurone. Actually it started with pain in my third n fourth finger of right leg but now I have pain in both the leg fingers. Especially the last three of both legs. Incidentally out of doubt when I checked my uric acid it was 7.4. but there after its one year now my uric acid level has not crossed 6.2. I'm confused whether this pain is due to uric acid or it is moto neuron pain. I donot hv gout Please recommend some remedy for the same. There pain aggravates while walking n soon after I finish. Thank you in anticipation Regards

[@rexbabyrabbits]

Toe? No one has ever said leg fingers

[@XxGlaciersOfIcexX]

I had a metatarsal injury 3yrs ago (right foot next to big toe) I still cannot walk with 100% strength in my right foot and it is maddening. I can feel a bump on the joint area on the bottom of my foot that is not present on my other foot. I feel very discouraged bc any other injury ive had in my life I completely rebounded from. This metatarsal injury still lingers - so very frustrating

[@criticRN]

It is a frustrating injury for sure.

[@angelar3625]

excelent explanation

[@snowbike8032]

Hello, thank you for this video! Three months ago I was pushing a sled while wearing boots that were slightly too large and my foot was sliding forward and backward. The next day the webspace in between my first and second toe was tingling. Three months later my toes still tingle. I've seen a podiatrist, family doctor, etc. The podiatrist was very casual and said it's likely a neuroma and there is not much to do about it except add the pad behind the bones. I can't find any specific spot that hurts when I press on my foot, it just feels like a squishy sponge under the metatarsal joints where you have black marks on the foot in the video. I am an avid xc skier, cyclist, winter cyclist and hiker. I can't imagine not being active. I don't have pain but just a squishy feeling. Any advice would be appreciated as I'm extremely worried about my future foot health. I've read about injections, alcohol injections, nerve surgery, etc. I wear a Paul Coffin orthotic that I like very much but it won't fit in my ski or cycling shoes so I have a small hard orthotic that fits in those. Thank you so much

[@alenselinof641]

Thanks for this, short but more than useful, at least for me. (2:48 - 2:52 How old, 50 or more?)

[@OMINOIDmusic]

hi. im a drummer and have a prolonged (5 year) stress fracture in my right foot from the bass drum pedal. i also made it worse by running. is there anything that you can recommend for my feet? i need to be able to play drums for two hours a day.

[@OrthoEvalPal]

Probably a shoe with a more rigid sole. One that doesn't bend so easily

[@AShipley]

Great explanation! Thank you! Your illustration for the Metatarsalgia shows that the pain seems to closer the foot pad. My pain is definitely on the bone of the second toe, but it is just below the base of the toe (like at the edge of the foot pad). Would that still be a Metatarsalgia? I know this all started with tight shoes and a hard floor, but even though I'm wearing proper shoes now and staying off it when I can, the pain is pretty constant. I'm thinking it's Metatarsalgia, but I'm curious if the different location would indicate something else.

[@OrthoEvalPal]

HI A. So, yes that location can be metatarsalgia and/or predislocation syndrome. I would definitely treat them both with an orthotic with a met pad. kzbin.info/www/bejne/boq3qmCQr7J_nMU

[@davehill5539]

Nice differentiation

[@OrthoEvalPal]

Thanks a lot Dave!

[@godxeria944]

I think my diagnosis would be metatarsalgia on the 4th metatarsal-phalangeal joint. It hurts so much as if I stepped on a nail or something. I can go for 2-3 months without getting any pain and suddenly I step on the floor and that sharp pain comes, after that I walk like a penguin for weeks because I'm scared of that pain coming back. Every step is agony during those weeks. I try to relax and walk normally but pain comes unexpectedly and it just makes me more scared..

[@ryanmckenzie1922]

I’ve been diagnosed with metatarsalgia going on 2 years now. I definitely have the bunched up sock feeling or as I usually describe it as a “lump” the grows bigger throughout the day and calms down with rest. What’s odd is the feeling is coming from the second metatarsal joint as you describe but it isn’t necessarily painful when I poke and prod at it. It’s more of a deep ache that’s difficult to describe. I do notice that I can feel the joints much easier on the foot with the issues. It seems less padded than my other foot. But the idea of adding more padding over the joint just increases the bunched up sock feeling. I’ve tried many things and just started stretching every day with new shoes and orthotics. Hoping I start to make some progress. 2 years seems very excessive for this kind of injury no?

[@OrthoEvalPal]

Well if you are putting the padding under the metatarsal, it' s in the wrong place. It needs to go just behind it. Here's another video that may explain it differently. kzbin.info/www/bejne/boq3qmCQr7J_nMU

[@dillyheslop7031]

God I think I have both of these, booked to go and see a chiropractor, hope it clears!

[@bazwilson3816]

Hi, thanks for the informative video. I've recently had surgery on my big toe for hallux limitus. I had a waterman green osteotomy. I'm not sure if that's a world know term or not but they basically shortened bug big toe because it was a little bit too long and putting pressure on the joint causing arthritis. I had this surgery 6 months ago. Now on the same food, the toe next to my big to is painful to touch the top of the toe I particularly. In your opinion do you think this could be what your describing in the video? Also do you think it could be related to the surgery? I'm am due to have the same surgery on my other foot but I'll have to think twice about it if it causes this pain

[@krystyedalton6101]

I have Morton’s neuroma in my left foot, what type of orthotic do you recommend? I believe I’ve developed it from wearing my trail running shoes way too tight.

[@chudgolf2112]

Pretty confident that I have Morton’s neuroma. I’ve tried some inserts, no help. Unsure what to do now.

[@erikrivas8534]

I pressed too much the top of the foot in the gym, now five weeks later I have a sharp pain when I pressed to much that part, I can support my own body with my foot... Doctors said it is fascitits plantar but now it sounds like it is Morton's Neuroma

[@jjw6605]

Made the worst mistake ever and bought skechers orthofit shoes. Took only 2 days to cause what youve explained is mortons neuroma. Im now starting palmitoylethanolamide to see if it helps

[@Christianjfit24]

So it appears I don’t have either of these… not sure what I have. But pain is all along the inner foot (top of that first meta tarsal) When I dorsiflex and crunch my toes… I have zero range compared to my left foot and it hurts when I crunch my toes. There is some clicking. But the pain the mostly on the joint itself.

[@Kathop5781]

This is wonderful info…. I ‘think’ I have Metatarsalgia….it is in the right place As you point up….but I also Get a lot of actual nerve pain…when walking. This pain will last long after sitting and putting my feet up. A sharp burning hot pain? What causes this???? Please.

[@OrthoEvalPal]

Could be a significant amount of inflammation there lingering.

[@Kathop5781]

@@OrthoEvalPal Thank you❣️

[@Paulableclic]

I went to the doctor yesterday and they said that I have Mortons neuroma, but my pain it’s higher on the dorsi

[@Traderjoe]

I’d like to know what I can do to alleviate the Mortons if it is already a problem and causing pain.

[@OrthoEvalPal]

A flexible calf is important: ezslant.com A good custom orthotic can help: kzbin.info/www/bejne/boq3qmCQr7J_nMU No walking on hard surfaces without shoes on. Go to a rocker bottom shoe: amzn.to/3iLX1YC. (Amaz affil)

[@GregKerr301]

Great explanation. Can either cause ball of foot swelling? Thanks!

[@OrthoEvalPal]

Yes but not a lot

[@22285CB]

About 20 years ago I was told I had a Morton’s neuroma, had a steroid shot, had custom orthotics made with a large metatarsal pad embedded. Everything calmed down for years. Fast forward to today, I now have rheumatoid arthritis and my whole foot became swollen and my toes were screaming at me after being on the treadmill for 10 minutes. I’ve gotten the swelling down but now I don’t know what type of shoes to wear, and I need to find somebody who can make me a decent orthotic as my guy left town. I had one made out of town, but it doesn’t work as there’s no metatarsal support. I don’t know whether to get shoes with a rocker sole my toes don’t bend as much, get stiff shoes so my toes don’t bend? With my orthotics in, my foot splays to a 2E in New Balance, Hoka wide was not wide enough. Thank you!

[@sl2608]

Check out Orthofeet shoes. They've brought me a lot of relief. I wore New Balance for years. The ONLY New Balance model that helped me was the 928v3. But now I'm wearing only Orthofeet.

[@sec9500]

Thank you, Doctor. I'm glad I found your video and think I can rule out Morton's Neuroma due to absence of a little lump and no clicking. My problem is with 2nd and 3rd toes and a feeling of numbness on top between the big toe and 2nd toe, plus the feeling of stepping on a rounded, flat stone. Does that sound like metararsalgia? I appreciate any feedback.

[@MarieDonahue-yi6oz]

I have the same with no pain just numbness.

[@DinoSpumoni213]

I think I have both conditions in both feet. Is that possible? I have PF and the pain made me want to walk on my forefoot. Eventually I developed pain in the balls of my foot and also an almost constant ache/burn under the toes. I can't sleep at night because of both the ache and the pain in the ball of the foot

[@traciegaston1376]

Hi there, i still don’t know which condition I have as it’s only a problem when I wear hard, inflexible soled shoes like ski-boots and MTB shoes. The pain starts as a burning in the pad under my toes and increases in intensity until I am in tears and have to stop 😢 I have custom-made orthotics and footbeds but still get the problem - should I try a metatarsal dome in my ski boots this Feb? I just want to ski without pain!! 🙏

[@OrthoEvalPal]

Are your calves tight? That is usually the biggest contributor to metatarsal pain

[@traciegaston1376]

@@OrthoEvalPal- no my calves aren’t tight, it feels like more of a compressed nerve problem where my feet start off tingling, then burning and feeling completely and painfully numb, then gradually come back to life when I take my ski boots off.

[@OrthoEvalPal]

@@traciegaston1376 have you considered compartment syndrome?

[@mrjcbuc]

I had Morton’s neuroma surgery 11/22, and now I have more pain than ever. It feels like pain has migrated to the right and to the back, feeling more like metatarsalgia. Pads and calf exercises have done nothing.

[@DanTheMan221]

I have a really sharp pain, like a bruised feeling on the long bone on the middle toe. It isn't a bruise it is internal, the area is a size of a finger nail just under the toe where it meets the main foot area. Any ideas?

[@kdtfiles1]

Can you have Morton's Neuroma without the numbness/pain? I get the clicking (like the two metatarsals are grinding/rolling over each other), especially when I have a shoe on and put pressure on the ball of my foot - walking/bending, but I've never had the numbness/pain.

[@jnewman1718]

Hi Doc, thanks for the video but my condition, although seems similar to the two conditions you mention here, does not belong to be any of them. The reason is there's no pain whatsoever. Briefly, my symptoms are: the area (ball of foot + all 5 toes) in both feet look a bit more red than usual, and feel the skin in this area a bit thickened. While walking it feels strange and odd but while sleeping it feels normal as it's not touching anything. Additional information: I'm 65+ and always stay at home wearing rubber flip flops all day long, except when going out once in a while. Another thing I notice is that the bottom of my feet feels a bit sticky when touching the pad of the flip flops. I appreciate any advice from you Doc, or anyone who's familiar with my condition. Can I apply some cold treatment (even with no pain) and do some stretching of the toes as home treatment? Thanks.

[@nadinelai4575]

similar to mine - but I have pain at night in bed

[@nadinelai4575]

Mine may even be more painful - plus I have arch problems - I had my first round of PRP/pep157/dextrose last Friday. So, I am not seeing any results yet.

[@peaceandlove544]

Can show the orthodox you pit, and how to get it please!! I think I have both and I just had my 5th metatarsal from the base broke and doctor wants me on a hard shoe!!! 😢😢😢

[@davidg5704]

Thank you for this video. I thought I had Mortons neuroma but the way you explained it I believe it's the metatarsalgia. I purchased insoles for bottom of foot but it seems to aggravate it more. I was told that I have flatter feet with less arch. I was led to believe it was necessary to restore the arch?

[@crispycruiser4654]

Metatarsalgia is not a diagnosis. It’s a wastebasket term encompassing all foot pain

[@lucindabeaumont8056]

My pain is between the joints in that area, the arches and heel. By dark I can barely walk at all my feet burn so bad on the bottom. I'm trying to figure out out on my own and ibuprofen helps with prevention as long as I take them every four hours.

[@louieamicangelo3806]

Be careful with NSAIDs they can damage your kidneys.....Did mine....I didn't know...

[@Ninaskyslimit11]

Thank u 🙏🏼 for explaining the difference.I think I have metarsalgia both feet extremely pain for the last 7 yrs going to be eight yrs soon. Can’t this be cured?

[@OrthoEvalPal]

Yes, I treated a lot of people with metatarsalgia by utilizing an orthotic with a metatarsal pad. Here is a link to my most recent video for something you can try yourself. kzbin.info/www/bejne/g4S8q5eKm8iWsKMsi=_anBCoRDT-qeye7V

[@OrthoEvalPal]

You are welcome!

[@robreeves5434]

Can I ever heal the second one you were talking about? Thank you in advance for any response.

[@angelar3625]

I have been diagnosed apparently with metatarsal fibrosis . Would you be so kind as to explain what that is ? many thanks 🙏🙏

[@OrthoEvalPal]

It is basically a fibrous tissue which is part of your plantar fascia but could be near the metatarsals.

[@ithacacomments4811]

I have impingement in the nerve roots to my 3rd and 4th toes in my spine L5 S1. My toes feel numbish but I feel pain if I pinch them.

[@crystalcoleman8668]

I have that 2nd toe problem, and also have a stumps neuroma from 2 diff foot surgeies , Its awful pain. One says they want to do surgery on that toe and another says the neuroma and some say no surgery , I will be worse off , I cant hardly walk now ,