NOTE: This is a somewhat long, rambling post. I'm writing this to help others who are facing surgery to correct Morton's Neuroma and to describe my recovery process and progress.
I'm now three weeks post-op for surgery to remove a damaged nerve in my foot. I was diagnosed with a condition called "Morton's Neuroma" that wreaked havoc on my mobility for the better part of 2010. The story goes like this...
I'm 35, 6'2", weigh 190lbs, and wear a size 13 (US) shoe. So, yeah, big feet. I've always had a hard time finding shoes that fit well, and usually made the stupid choice of style over comfort. That was never much of a problem...until this year. I work in the fields of science & technology and have had a fairly sedentary desk/office job for more than 10 years, plus I live in St. Louis, where everyone drives everywhere. Two years ago I started frequent domestic & international travel for work. One of the aspects of travel I enjoy most is being on foot much more than at home. Towards the end of 2009 I started noticing some uncomfortable tightness & pain in my right toes, foot & ankle, but just brushed it off as aches & pains associated with getting older & not being in prime physical condition.
This continued through the spring of 2010, with the pain getting worse & becoming more persistent. No longer was it just the occasional "ouch" when walking on an uneven surface - I would wake up feeling like my foot was on fire, and have sharp, shooting pain through my toes & up to my ankle every time I put my foot down. Without realizing it, I started walking on the outer edge of my foot to avoid the pain, which then started causing my ankle to hurt more & swell. Not exactly a good situation.
I finally went to my physician in late spring & was first referred to a podiatrist. He poked & pressed around on my foot & ankle in ways that made me squirm, and not in a good way, so he ordered up some xrays. The first round showed what looked like fractures in a couple of metatarsals (the bones that run from the base of your toes to your midfoot) so he sent me for an MRI. It showed that I had torn tendons on my ankle and stress fractures that had rehealed in my 2nd & 3rd phalanges & metatarsals (toes & foot). He then referred me to an orthopedic surgeon, and that's when things started getting medieval.
The orthopedist reviewed my MRI & did her own xrays, plus talked with me about all the pain I was having. Her diagnosis was that I had a neuroma, or nerve tumor, between my 2nd & 3rd toes caused by the improper healing of the broken metatarsals, as well as poor bone morphology.
Long story short (by this time it was September): the 2nd & 3rd toes on my right foot are more closely aligned than normal. I did something (don't know what, exactly) that caused those bones to fracture. They healed on their own, but not perfectly, and so those crazy cracked bones were grinding on the nerve that runs between them. That damaged nerve was causing the shooting pains, which in turn was causing me to walk in such a way as to avoid the pain, which was tearing tendons in my ankle.
Fun, huh?!
So then, to treatment. Apparently you can't do an xray or MRI & see if you have a damaged nerve, so you literally have to take a shot in the dark - a cortisone shot directly into the nerve. Now listen, I have a very high pain threshold (piercings, tattoos) but that mother HURT! But it worked. My foot was numb, like your mouth feels after getting a shot at the dentist, and for the first time in months it didn't hurt or ache or burn. Success.
I was also sent for physical therapy, which didn't do a damn thing. I got special inserts for my shoes, which helped alleviate a little bit of the pain, but not enough to make a difference in my daily activities. Frustrating & expensive.
On my followup visit with the orthopedist we talked about next steps and because the cortisone shot was so effective, she considered me a good candidate for surgery. As in, surgery to remove the damaged nerve. As in, cut open your foot, hack out the nerve, sew it back up, send you home. This freaked me out a little bit. I wasn't worried about the surgery itself, I was worried about the recovery & long term side effects. My doc talked me through this - because the nerve is removed, I'd be left with a numb spot on the top & bottom of my foot along the incision, plus the inner sides of my 2nd & 3rd toes would be numb. The numbness would not affect balance, and following recovery I'd be able to walk normally & return to activities that I'd given up because of the pain, namely going to the gym & doing yoga.
But, wow, it's irreversible, optional surgery. I mean, it's optional in that I wouldn't die if I didn't have surgery. And you know, once you cut out a nerve it's gone - it can regenerate a little bit, but it's not like it's going to magically grow back & be 100%. So I was facing a difficult decision: have the surgery & be left with a numb spot on my foot, or don't have the surgery & be left with a painful spot on my foot. Plus, I read a few web sites & forums from people who had had the surgery; some with good results, some with bad results. This post in particular & its comments scared the bejesus out of me...so much so that I got a second opinion & had a very lengthy followup with my doc to make sure I was making the right decision.
And so after a lot of consideration, I opted for surgery. And I don't regret it one bit.
The surgery itself was a snap - outpatient, in & out in 7 hours. My partner was traveling for work & couldn't change his schedule, so my best friend Tagert took me to the facility. I was admitted, did the paperwork, assigned a bay & bed, got an IV, met with my surgeon, laughed over the mark she put on my foot, waved to the camera, and then Dr. Feelgood came in to give me meds and it's all a blur after that. I sort of remember being wheeled out of the bay into the OR, and kind of remember cracking some joke as they moved me to the operating table, but seriously, I woke up in recovery & thought I'd just dozed off. I was surprised to see that my foot was all bandaged up & the surgery was over. I had no adverse reactions to the anesthesia, so I had a couple of crackers, a little bit of juice, and was sent home.
And then I spent the next 10 days like this:
Yes, really. Tagert stayed with me that night while my partner was out of town, and two neighbors came over to help get me food & get me situated. I was on heavy narcotics (Norco; LOVELY stuff) every 4 hours, along with a few other meds for inflammation & to prevent blood clots. For the first 3 days my foot was completely numb from the anesthetic block. It felt like concrete - just numb & heavy & useless. I kept my foot elevated - "toes above your nose" - with the help of pillows, and got off the couch as little as possible. When I did get up it was for short periods of time only and I had to use crutches to get around. I have to say, and I know it may sound bad, but honestly it was a really restful experience - wake up, take a pill, watch TV, fall asleep, repeat. My two dogs were with me, one of whom got to spend all her time on the couch next to me. Time had no meaning or importance. As the Italians say, "Dolce far niente" - it is sweet to do nothing.
On my 3rd day after surgery (a Thursday) I returned to work via couch & laptop & wifi. On that Friday I thought I'd be brave and start cutting back on the pain pills. Big mistake. Huge. The pain started edging in & then all of a sudden it was so intense & so present that it made me sick to my stomach. I got right back on the Norco horse & rode it through the weekend. On my 10th day after surgery I went in for a checkup & had my bandages removed & stitches out. That hurt like hell.
As of this writing I'm on my 4th week of recovery. Between that first week & now I've gotten off the pain meds, but am still taking aspirin to reduce the risk of blood clots. I am driving (something I couldn't do while stitches were in) and I've ditched the crutches. I use a cane when I'm outside the house because I still have limited flexibility in my toes & the cane helps me move around with stability. I've returned to work, and all things considered, once again am a productive member of society.
And so what everyone wants to know is: is your foot numb? The answer is yes. I have about a 2" numb spot on my foot that follows the incision, and those inner sides of my 2nd & 3rd toes are numb. I still have normal nerve supply to the other side of each toe, and the doc said that there were small fibrous nerves in the top of each toe remaining, so overall I've only lost a very small portion of feeling in my foot. I'm gaining flexibility and am able to be on my feet for longer periods of time every day.
The other thing people want to know is: would I do it again? The answer is yes, absolutely, because I'm free from pain. For the first time this year I'm able to wake up without feeling like my foot is on fire. I can walk without feeling like I'm stepping on nails every time I put my foot down. I feel like I have my life back, and that is wonderful.
If you have been diagnosed with a neuroma & are considering surgery, please read any & all of the above as the experience of one person. Overall my experience has been good, but I have heard from others who have had less successful procedures. I think for me it was finding the right surgeon & working with her to make sure this was the right procedure for me. I have had the luxury of a healthy stockpile of sick time & vacation days (as well as doing this during the holiday season) which has allowed me to be at work when I'm able to be productive & at home when I'm not. I also think I came into the surgery with realistic expectations of what I'd be able to do during recovery & afterwards, and so while my dreams of being a professional dancer may be over, I'm able to do my actual professional work without pain & suffering.
Last thing: I could not have made it through this recovery time without proper support, both physical & emotional. For physical support of my foot I got a pair of orthopedic Crocs. Now look, I'm not a fan of Crocs. I think they're ugly and I've never understood why people wear them...until I put these on. They are light, they are comfortable, they are quite possibly the smartest purchase I've made in years. This particular line has an extra wide toe box that makes for easy on & off without pain or fuss. If you're going through any kind of foot surgery I highly recommend these. As for emotional support, I've always been an independent person but there's no way I could have gotten through this without the help of my family & friends. You *have* to have someone around in your first week to be your feet & hands - to go get things for you, to run errands, to bring in the mail, that kind of boring, normal stuff - because I'm convinced that my successful recovery is due to taking it completely easy for as long as possible. So to everyone who has helped me, I give a huge THANK YOU!
I wrote this for the sake of sharing information about my experience with Morton's Neuroma surgery & recovery. If you're facing something similar, I hope you find this helpful, and I'll be glad to talk with you or answer any questions you might have.
572 comments:
«Oldest ‹Older 401 – 572 of 57212 days after surgery on 2 neuromas on left foot. One small one which an injection probably would have solved and one huge one that the doctor, who did an ultrasound scan on it, said was huge and had to come out. Was told after surgery the huge one was very big indeed. Got bandage off and stitches out yesterday and foot hurt like hell. Today amazingly foot best it's been, even walking slightly on the whole foot. Nurse who took out stitches said the surgeons had done a great job. Don't want to get carried away as thought foot was getting better before only for pain to return with a vengeance. As to what caused my neuroma, having read as much as I could on the condition the only thing I can think of is an old sports injury on the sole of my foot which has , over time caused the neuromas. Apparently neuromas can lie undetected for many years and people don't know they have them. I'm taking things a day at a time but so looking forward to long walks with my gorgeous wee dog and playing fully with my kids. With summer not too far away the prospect of slaving away in my garden sounds just great. So glad there are blogs like this as there has been so little info on what to do after surgery. Not sure when I can return to work but seeing doctor next week and await guidance. Certainly can't go back until I can walk for 8-9 hours without having to rest,which I think is a wee while away .
Hi thanks for writing such a great blog! I'm on day 3 post surgery and was itching to get up and get on! Despite being told to rest for two weeks! I had a neuroma between toes 3 and 4 and don't think I've had the degree of pain you've had. I took morphine 3 times the night of the surgery, when the block wore off, but then just felt so sick and groggy the next day I didn't want to take it again! Since then I've only needed to take paracetamol, ibuprofen and a little codeine. It feels pretty fine this morning so I think I've been lucky (hence wanting to get up!). I wondered, how long did you keep your bandage on? My foot gets really hot and itchy so I've let a bit out... Also the surgeon said I could heel walk straight away but I'm really reluctant to do this at least for a few days. At the same time he said rest for 2 weeks so I'm not exactly sure what that means!
Lucy
Hi there, just wanted to share some knowledge that I gained from physical therapy that I received after surgery. Apparently my dr felt i was healing slowly and behind schedule so he had me go. One thing that helped was when the incision was closed that they had me get marbles of different sizes (michaels crafts has them) and pick them up with my toes. Also a tennis ball to roll under my foot helped. A towel wrapped around the bottom of my foot and pulled towards me helped my calf build back up for lack of not using it while recovering. Also balling up a towel on a hard surface floor helped with things. I found at Wallgreens a cover for my foot which went up to my knee and was the best thing ever for showering. Not a drop of water got to the incision and up till then we were using trash bags with tape and I can't tell you how much we went through. For sleeping my husband found a square box at costco, we turned it upside down and cut a big square out of one side which fit my foot in perfectly while I slept as even a sheet bugged and hurt. I am happy to say that I had a partial pedicure today as she set my foot on a hot towel and was even able to clip my nails! I didn't soak the foot as that is too soon but there were days when I never thought I would see that luxury again. My foot is less and less swollen now and I have just stuck with the surgery shoe while healing. I am able to put my foot into a slipper now. The incision is drying up quickly now and I am starting the massage on the sides of the incision which is a bit sore but I know it i doing good. For reference I had the surgery 1/29/14 and today is 3/26/14. I think from reading this wonderful blog that I may have taken a bit longer but my foot is almost there and I have no pain walking. I am so happy and wish the same for all of you. :)
Kim
Hi there, just wanted to share some knowledge that I gained from physical therapy that I received after surgery. Apparently my dr felt i was healing slowly and behind schedule so he had me go. One thing that helped was when the incision was closed that they had me get marbles of different sizes (michaels crafts has them) and pick them up with my toes. Also a tennis ball to roll under my foot helped. A towel wrapped around the bottom of my foot and pulled towards me helped my calf build back up for lack of not using it while recovering. Also balling up a towel on a hard surface floor helped with things. I found at Wallgreens a cover for my foot which went up to my knee and was the best thing ever for showering. Not a drop of water got to the incision and up till then we were using trash bags with tape and I can't tell you how much we went through. For sleeping my husband found a square box at costco, we turned it upside down and cut a big square out of one side which fit my foot in perfectly while I slept as even a sheet bugged and hurt. I am happy to say that I had a partial pedicure today as she set my foot on a hot towel and was even able to clip my nails! I didn't soak the foot as that is too soon but there were days when I never thought I would see that luxury again. My foot is less and less swollen now and I have just stuck with the surgery shoe while healing. I am able to put my foot into a slipper now. The incision is drying up quickly now and I am starting the massage on the sides of the incision which is a bit sore but I know it i doing good. For reference I had the surgery 1/29/14 and today is 3/26/14. I think from reading this wonderful blog that I may have taken a bit longer but my foot is almost there and I have no pain walking. I am so happy and wish the same for all of you. :)
Kim
Hi Lucy just read your post. My bandage stayed on for 10 days as I was instructed to do. On day 10 the dr removed it and took the stitches out. I would have taken my bandages off sooner now that I know what I know. My bandages got so tight when my foot swelled that it was more uncomfortable than the surgery spot! It is wonderful that you are at such a good spot and ready to start moving again. My heel was really sore so I didn't heel walk for a while. I started on the side of my foot. I may have babied the foot for too long. As for rest just take the time to catch up on reading or TV or working from home. I think a lot of people have gotten up too quickly and tried to get back to their routine and then paid for it. Take the time you have and baby your foot. Sounds like you will be back up and about before you know it! Good for you!!!! :)
Today is April 12, 2014. Are people still posting/reading this blog? I can't tell what dates people have posted.
I am scheduled for surgery on 4/28/14 and am really nervous about this surgery. I did not expect the recovery time to be so lengthy and so painful as everyone describes here. The docs all downplay the recovery. The 2nd surgeon I am currently seeing is upfront that there will be a permanent feeling like I am walking on a marble or hard object at the base of the toes/ball of foot. After reading this blog, I am questioning if my current pain is bad enough to go the route of surgery, or continue to try to find another solution to relieve pain. I am a prisoner to tennis shoes with my orthodics! Even then, I get shooting pain in my toes and a constant ache in my 2/3 toes when I walk. No pain when I don't take a step! Any shoes besides tennis shoes and my SAS sandals cause pain with every step. I cannot walk barefoot- extreme pain in toes. I am so concerned that I will have more pain than I currently have, as a result of the surgery. Yet I can't wear tennis shoes the rest of my life! Been dealing with a neuroma in my left foot between 2nd & 3rd toes for 2 1/2 yrs. I've had several cortisone shots over 3 1/2 yrs, all of which gave no relief (the shot was painful but only for 10 seconds); I went through a series of 6 alcohol sclorosing injections (again, only painful for 10 seconds as the injection was given). No relief from these either. DPM said next step is surgery. I was fitted for custom orthodics 2 yrs ago and have worn mainly my tennis shoes all of this time. I wear them every day to work. No dress shoes for 4 years! I really hoped the alcohol injections had worked. I wish there was an alternative to surgery. I feel my pain is minor compared to others who have posted here, yet, my lifestyle is on hold as a result of the neuroma. I am a swing dancer and have had to limit my dancing and can only wear tennis shoes. I rarely hike due to the discomfort. Have to wear sandals to walk the beach and then I still have pain/discomfort. I don't want my entire summer activities limited more than my current condition, so now I am thinking I should wait til October when I have less outdoor activities planned. oh, I decided to get a surgeons opinion, rather than go with the DPM (she moved 45 min away from my home). The 1st surgeon said I have neuroma, maybe tendon tear, maybe capsulitis too; my 2nd toe needs to be shortened and my achiles tendon in calf was too tight so we need to lengthen that. YIKES! Seems extreme for the discomfort/pain I have. I got a 2nd surgeons opinion and he said Neuroma. He numbed the nerve to my 2 toes with a long lasting lidocaine (about 7 hours) and injected cortisone as well. He said this numbness is what it will feel like after the surgery (so I will know what to expect). If there is indeed a neuroma, I will have no pain during these 7 hrs (because he numbed the nerve). If I have pain, then there is something other than a neuroma. I was painfree for 7 hours! The numbness between the toes didn't bother me but it was iritating to have the ball of my foot feel like I had a bunched up sock, or had a marble in the ball of my shoe. He also told me he tucks the nerve into the muscle so there is less likelyhood of nerve pain after surgery. What to do.... I am so undecided.
Barb this is Kim In Charlotte. It is Tuesday 4/16/14. I so get your angst in doing the surgery because I was totally freaked out too. Your situation sounds very much like mine. I too saw a couple of drs and before I moved from LA to NC my dr there was trying cortisone shots too. I suffered and looked for shoe after shoe, got orthotics and little lift inserts that went in the shoe under the balls to lift the neuroma. So then I was searching for wide shoes and found the sketcher go walks were soft on the bottom and stretched on top giving me some relief. My friend had gone to New York and brought cute shoes rather than walking shoes and found the go walks and lived in them for the whole trip. So. I will be honest. I was so terrified to do this surgery and of course.. a week before the pain disappeared after suffering for 4 yrs. I went to my dr in NC who had told me no more cortisone since it wasn't working & scheduled my surgery. I told him i didn't want to do it since I had no pain $ couldn't justify doing it. He assured me my pain would come back and I would have to schedule all over again. Rather than waiting for that day I went through with it.
WE all seem to heal differently. My dr thought he was going to have to break my 3rd and 4th toes and put rods in them as they were raising up. As it turns out the surgery itself is quite easy. He didn't have to break toes but he did cut tendons to release the toes so they wouldn't be going up any longer. If you read my earlier response I did suggest some items to have handy after surgery. The knee scooter worked wonders if you are coordinated which it sounds like you are. I could go anywhere with it and could set the break and have a place to sit as well. Now I was told not to do anything & to stay off it for 10 days & at that time I had stitches out. I didn't walk on it heel or otherwise as whenever I bent my foot it hurt. I think at the 6 wk point I had much more flexibility & mobility but was not yet far enough along. I didn't have range in my ankle. I did PT for 4 wks.
I am still swelling like crazy. My incision is healing nicely & the scab is ready to fall off. The 2 toes are hanging down and the one next to my pinkie toe is sticking up. I do have pain in my toes and my heel here and there but it is to be expected. The whole marble under your foot thing doesn't sound right. I had that for a while but it is going away and the area where the neuroma was is pain free. I think when they do the surgery they have to move things around to get to the neuroma so the swelling etc must be normal. If your dr tucks the nerves in deep you shouldn't have a prob.
Honestly I was so scared to do the surgery & i can't put any shoes on still but the go walks but I have less pain than I had all those years. It will take time to heal no doubt. Dr's don't tell us what to expect. I would do it again. I promise. Just take the time to heal. That is the key. Some people on here talk about running three weeks after surgery. I don't get it. I can tell you this blog was very helpful and many times I was wondering what was happening & I went on this blog & figured out what I was feeling was normal. I would be happy to speak with you live if you want to send your ph #. It's scary I know. You may heal & be one of those runners 3 wks after surgery! For us & our life styles it sounds like it will be a good thing. My next venture is a hip replacment.. My foot & hip are frm dance & heavy duty arobics & running. Just think how wonderful it will be to get up & put on a pair of shoes without pain & walk a long time without pain. You just have to decide how important it is. Once we live with it for so long we justify not doing the surgery. Good luck & let me know what you decide. Sorry for the long winded response but I wanted as much info & shared experiences that I could find. The blog was 2 yrs old before I found it.
I just had surgery for Morton's neuroma, so far no pain 12 hours later. I was not given crutches just a pad over my foot. They gave me oxicodene for the pain but no aspirin or any other meds. Should I be taking aspirin to stop clots not sure? I will have stitches out in 13 days need to go back to work, hopefully there will be no more pain. Thanks for posting this. Also I was never given any other options such as shots just surgery. I hope I made the right decision
Hi Maureen
Don't know if it helps but I was never told to take aspirin either. If you have no pain that is great. One thing to do is to put your foot up and write the alphabet with your foot.. first do it backwards and then as you would regularly. It will keep your muscles in your calf strong and the blood flowing. I was told this by the physical therapist.
Also if you start feeling any pain take the pills. I didn't and it got me good. A lot of people don't have pain and hopefully you will be one of them. Did they go in through the top?
yes they went though at the top so now just aches thank you for the
advice I will give it a try. I have to make an appointment for next week follow up. I won't take anything till then if he lets me
Hi Marueen, also ask about when you can start massaging around the incision to break up the scar tissue. One other thing the PT had me do is get a bag of marbles (I found mine at michaels) and start picking up the marbles one by one and drop them into a container. I just keep the container next to the couch where i watch tv so I can randomly do it. He should be able to tell you when you can start that as well.
I am from anchorage Alaska and I am four weeks post op and I still can't walk normally or wear a shoe I had a lot of pain during the first 14 days after surgery my doctor said the longer you suffered with MN the longer you will have pain hence pain/mental in the Braun the brain gets used to the pain. Mine was bothering me for 9 months. I am a banquet server so I work standing up 8 hours a day with no breaks... I lift and carry heavy huge oval trays with 8/10 meals up to a city block.. I wear a pedometer at work so I know I walk 7 mikes in a 8 hour shift. As I have never had a license.. Walk or rude my bike to work it has affected me by having pain on a 10 scale.. I am 51 and I got MN from walking.. I can't go back to work for 6 weeks and I'm afraid I might have to switch careers from banquet serving I have done this type if work for 28 yrs. is there anybody else out there who got MN from walking like I have?
Hi Maureen, I understand your concerns. I think walking does effect our MN but only due to your natural gait and type of shoe. My feet roll out when I step putting pressure on the side of my foot which in turn put pressure on the bones in my foot squeezing that nerve causing me pain over the years. I am 58. I walked at a very fast pace for years for exercise, did step classes weight training etc and wore cute shoes rather than sensible much of the time. I am 3 months post op and still have a lot of swelling after being on it for 3 or 4 hours. some people had none. just make sure you have good shoes when you go back to work. you should be able to do everything you used to.
Oops..
I meant Karen
Had surgery (several) years ago when approach was from bottom of foot. All were unsuccessful and for last when dressing was removed in emergency appointment my foot past ankle was black, swollen, so painful I was scooting to restroom on butt with leg in air. Many blood clots in calf and immediate hospitalization with Heparin drip and coumadin.
Like I said all failures even when nerve was moved into a muscle and injections into bottom of foot I would rather have kidney stones, ruptured ovarian cyst, fractured femur and twins all at the same time before doing again! To this day walking is painful and tend to walk on side of foot, cannot wear any heighth heel at all, ladies I'm barely 5'4" so you know what wearing a dress looks like.
I have toyed with going from top of foot but maybe no one will touch me so maybe pain management? I do not want to end up with drop-foot!! I hate, hate, hate this and it is such a tiny in size problem.
I am about 3 1/2 weeks post surgery. The toe/incision area is doing great - but the ball of my foot is pretty painful if I'm not wearing my surgical shoe. I didn't have a lot of pain there before.
My dr. okayed m to start walking on day 4 - and my incision reopened but otherwise the incision area/toes aren't bad.
Should I be concerned about the ball of my foot still hurting??
Chris, I thank you for your blog. I had my surgery Christmas Eve morning and my foot is still tender and have a hard spot in the ball of my foot. Still hard to walk barefoot on my hardwood floors. I asked my doctor about it and she said that it will be that way for life. I can't believe that surely not. She has released me. Still cannot be on my foot for long; it swells and hurts. Have you heard from anyone else with this problem with their surgery? Thank you!
Hi, I'm not sure if this thread is still current. It is 20 May 2014 and I am day 21 post surgery. It has been such a comfort to read everyone's comments - I've been getting increasingly concerned that after 3 weeks I still cannot put my foot flat on the floor or put any weight on the ball of my foot, but I guess patience is the name of the game. I'm in more pain now than I was prior to surgery.
I am in the UK and had my operation under general anaesthetic in the day treatment centre at my local hospital. Unfortunately I had an allergic reaction to the anaesthetic and ended up being admitted to the general ward for two days. 21 days later and I have yet to speak to the consultant that operated on me - I have no idea if the operation went well, what exactly she did or what she removed. My post op appointment with the consultant is 17 July, 11 and a half weeks after my operation. I have no physiotherapy in place and have not been advised of how long I should rest my foot for or how I can aid recovery through exercises. My dressings have been changed at the doctor's surgery and the stitches are disolveable - I feel like I'm not being properly cared for and a little bit sorry for myself, anyone else feel like that?
I have had lots of the tingling, electrical fizzing and tight, pinching feelings reported by other people and it's a great comfort to know that I'm not alone. My scar, between my 2nd and 3rd toes is healing well but I feel like I've got a very tight stitch right between my toes. Not sure if it's a stitch or just part of the healing process - did anyone else have this?
I went back to work today, which was harder than I thought it would be. I kept my special shoe on as I work at a primary school and felt the shoe would act as a visual clue to stay away from my foot. At the end of the day my toes were very swollen and felt like the skin was going to split. Tomorrow my goal is to drive my car for the first time in 3 weeks - not sure my foot is up to lots of clutch action though!
Thank you for sharing your thoughts, feelings and experiences - so nice to know you are not alone :0)
Hi, I'm not sure if this thread is still current. It is 20 May 2014 and I am day 21 post surgery. It has been such a comfort to read everyone's comments - I've been getting increasingly concerned that after 3 weeks I still cannot put my foot flat on the floor or put any weight on the ball of my foot, but I guess patience is the name of the game. I'm in more pain now than I was prior to surgery.
I am in the UK and had my operation under general anaesthetic in the day treatment centre at my local hospital. Unfortunately I had an allergic reaction to the anaesthetic and ended up being admitted to the general ward for two days. 21 days later and I have yet to speak to the consultant that operated on me - I have no idea if the operation went well, what exactly she did or what she removed. My post op appointment with the consultant is 17 July, 11 and a half weeks after my operation. I have no physiotherapy in place and have not been advised of how long I should rest my foot for or how I can aid recovery through exercises. My dressings have been changed at the doctor's surgery and the stitches are disolveable - I feel like I'm not being properly cared for and a little bit sorry for myself, anyone else feel like that?
I have had lots of the tingling, electrical fizzing and tight, pinching feelings reported by other people and it's a great comfort to know that I'm not alone. My scar, between my 2nd and 3rd toes is healing well but I feel like I've got a very tight stitch right between my toes. Not sure if it's a stitch or just part of the healing process - did anyone else have this?
I went back to work today, which was harder than I thought it would be. I kept my special shoe on as I work at a primary school and felt the shoe would act as a visual clue to stay away from my foot. At the end of the day my toes were very swollen and felt like the skin was going to split. Tomorrow my goal is to drive my car for the first time in 3 weeks - not sure my foot is up to lots of clutch action though!
Thank you for sharing your thoughts, feelings and experiences - so nice to know you are not alone :0)
I'm starting a blog on Morton's Neuroma at http://restoremortons.blogspot.com that might be in line with offering some helpful info if you're trying to go the natural or as close as possible to natural healing route. Check it out - I'm 37 years old, male, past collegiate athlete and certified personal trainer. MN was a total surprise for me, but I will beat it!
HI there. Today is May 29, 2014 so this is a current update. the ball of the foot hurt me for quiet some time. I went back to the dr with questions to make sure it was healing properly rather than just 'hope" things were going okay. I'm sure they were over me there. I can say that the tightness between the toes is normal. My was quite uncomfortable and I thought they may have did an incision there as well as it was hurting quite a bit. The ball of the foot remained swollen and tender for quite a long time. Then the top of my foot started swelling as well as my ankle and outside of my foot. My foot is still healing and I had the surgery Jan 20, 2014. But I can tell you I did go back to the dr. for my very last appointment and he released me completely. I shared with him the challenges I am having and that my foot is still too wide to fit into a closed shoe and he said it is normal. these things we are felt or are feeling come with the territory. After doing this surgery I am told that the foot and knee are the toughest to recover but it was worth it all. there will come a day when suddenly things just magically get better as Chris had said in the beginning of his MN surgery. I have every confidence in my dr and it took me 4 months just to get scheduled into have the surgery so I know he is good at what he does. I still get random pain here and there but alll is good. The ball of my foot is 90%% pain free now and I'm sure I will continue to feel little jabs and dings here and there. I have not tried to put on a heel yet. As I said my left foot is still wider than original. I have been told it will take probably 9 months to a year before it is back to normal. I like to dress and have a store full of shoes so I understand your frustration. Whether or not I get into them is yet to be seen but living without the pain is worth it. Every day will get better.
Hi all. I am scheduled to have MN surgery this coming Thursday. Was supposed to have a consult on Friday, but the doctor had a personal emergency and will not be available until Tuesday. His office staff had me come in so I could get my scripts and post surgical shoe, all leading me to believe that this surgery was going to be a breeze.
After reading some of the responses here, I'm now very concerned about the post op recovery. I was only planning on taking Thursday off, but now see that Friday will have to be taken as well.
I am 37, tend to heal very quickly,and have a high pain tolerance. My neuroma is not that painful, mostly stinging and discomfort. Did not respond to cortisone or alcohol shot, so this surgery was scheduled.
Well, now I plan on stating totally off my feet for four days. Will I be able to drive 1 mile to work on Monday?
Well....its 2014. Have read every post because just found out I have MN in both feet. Very helpful in deciding to have surgery, one at a time. Could not imagine doing both like 2 foot lol. Wonder how everyone is doing now. Thanks Chris for your time in starting this blog!!!!!!!
Well....its 2014. Have read every post because just found out I have MN in both feet. Very helpful in deciding to have surgery, one at a time. Could not imagine doing both like 2 foot lol. Wonder how everyone is doing now. Thanks Chris for your time in starting this blog!!!!!!!
I had surgery for my morton's neuroma May 13 and was worried I was not recovering quick enough!
I felt considerably better, day by day as I moved into the 5th week though and I was elated! My surgery was on my right foot and I did not attempt to drive until the fourth week.
I am now 6 weeks post op and I am out of trainers and wearing Skechers GO Walk shoes. They are fantastic!. I can also wear a wide cushioned sole strappy flat sandal to work in the heat but I don't know how these would be for a long walk yet. I have a desk job but what I am finding is that I still walk funny. My ankle aches and also my calf muscles through under use over so many weeks I expect. My whole foot now touches the floor, swelling is minimal but it gets a little sore if I'm on my feet too long.
You can't rush your recovery from this but I know I have turned the corner and have no regrets about getting rid of this thing.
It is June 25th, 2014.. I am scheduled for surgery on both feet on July 9th. TERRIFIED. Over the past 2 years, I have had cortisone and also the 7 alcohol injections in both feet with poor results. My problem is that I also have terrible plantar fasciitis on both feet. This has been treated by stretching and hot stone massage, but, of course, after surgery, that will be impossible.
Surgeon is a typical "cutter" - no information offered up front, just "Schedule her for surgery." I have been treated for MN in both feet in TWO places, so I don't know if I'll have 2 incisions on each foot or what! I have a call into his office and I'm hoping to have some questions answered prior to the dreaded surgery. I did ask about stump neuroma (learned about that from another website) and he blew me off and said something about attaching it to bone (not muscle.) My level of confidence in this surgeon is waning rapidly, as you can tell.
I am 5'2", about 130 lbs, a young 68 yrs and have been an active dancer and gardener over the years. This pain has become intolerable. I really don't know which is worse, the MN or the PF? Has anyone had both conditions like this? I am prepared for the long recovery (ugh!) but wonder what it will be like with the PF involved? If anyone has any advice here, I'd appreciate it greatly. Also, please elaborate on when massage can be started for preventing scar tissue. Thanks...it's such a help to read a blog where there is real information and help. Thanks, Chris, for starting this a few years ago!
Hi melonious... i had my surgery january 29th and was released totally by my dr on may 14th. I had my two toes on the mn foot cleaned out and lengthened at the same time as my toes were curling up. It is imperative that you have trust in your dr. I found Chris's blog due to the fact that my dr wouldn't give me the info I needed. I spoke with a surgeon (now scheduling hip replacement) who was a foot dr and he looked at my foot and said it takes a year to get fully back to normal and dr's don't tell us details cause we won't do it. that's crazy. when you have pain as we do you do it. I tried many other things. I am so happy it has been done and I would do it again but I know I had a great dr. One thing I did... sounds nutty.... but after researching I went to my chosen dr's office before surgery and actually stayed in his waiting room and asked patients about him. Many had the same surgery and were more than happy to share. I was assured i had made the right choice. Had I not done that and read Chris's blog I would have never known if what I was feeling was normal. I did have Planter faciatis on my left foot (mn foot) but had sought help for that years ago and luckily it has not been an issue for years. I do have a bunion on my mn foot and wish i would have had it removed at the same time but the dr didn't want to do both for some reason. My foot still swells but this is natural. For a good year is what my hip dr said. I have no more nm pain and am so thankful. I started massaging 6 weeks out but that has to do with you and your recovery time. Ask about that when the bandages come off. I also started using scar guard when my dr okayed me for the massage.
Prepare for a long recovery and if things go great and quicker for you then great!! many people on the blog had a very speedy recovery. I think I just took it a lot slower due to the fact that I am not working. Everything is good with my foot but the swelling. That foot is one size bigger than the right but I have been assured it will resume it's natural size within a year.
Find a dr you trust!!!! I'm sure eveyone will agree with that. Write down questions.... schedule an appt. and go in and write down his answers. the knee scooter was my friend. I got around great with it by the way.
Good luck. You will be amazed at the difference once you do it. I would do it again in a heart beat thanks to Chris.
Kim...thank you so much! Really appreciate your reply. I don't think going to your Dr.'s office is crazy at all...great idea! I am still awaiting my call-back from my Dr. and sincerely hope he's compassionate enough to answer my questions, IF he calls back at all. He also mentioned "moving a toe" as they were too close or tight together and he thought that was putting pressure on nerves. But, once again, never explained how he does this. I have not had an MRI or ultra sound, so how exactly do the Dr.s know where the MN is? I might just go sit and wait for an 'audience' when I go to pick up my shoe. I have one 'boot' and need to get another small size as they were out. I am determined to have some explanations before doing this. I really do hope I am one of those quick healers like some on this site. As you said, the pain and inability to perform what were simple and fun activities just pushes one to making this decision eventually. But I do need my confidence restored. With both feet out of commission, maybe I can crawl around after awhile? Horrific to imagine!
Had MN surgery exactly 10 days ago. I'm 55 years old, male, about 200 lbs, 6 ft tall, and was pretty active until my foot rejected walking and running without pain.
They went in from the top between toes 2 and 3 on my left foot. I can't comment on whether it has successfully cured what ailed me, but I can comment on my surgery and recovery.
Surgery took about 45 minutes on a Monday afternoon. I did it at an out-patient surgery center. They knocked me out with Propofal and I have no recollection of anything between the beginning of the gurney ride and waking up in the recovery room with my wife sitting in a chair at my side.
My foot was completely numb for two full days after surgery. I did exactly what they asked me to do, which was keep my foot elevated all except about 5 minutes per hour, wear the boot, use my foot as little as possible, and keep it clean and dry. I tried not to get up much and just let it rest and heal. I worked from home on my couch and got more work done than usual. For the most part I camped out on the couch for the first week.
It never really hurt much and I never took any of the pain pills. It took ibuprofen a few times, but that was mainly because my back and neck got sore from being propped up on the couch for so long.
After one week, the doctor changed the bandage and inspected his work. All looks fine, my foot is swollen and black and blue, but not really that bad. I could sort of step down on it by that time, but not real well.
Its been 10 days, stitches will come out in 14. I can step down on it reasonably well now, but it still feels like there's a big swollen sore--not unlike the original problem. Gets better every day. I'm still elevating the foot most of the time, but I can get around pretty well now. If I leave my foot down when standing and don't move around, it feels like its swelling up--same feeling since about day 2, but its noticably less now--so I guess I'm getting better.
The doctor tells me I'll be out of the boot either Monday when he takes the stitches out, or after one more week. I suspect it will be Monday since I'm tempted to do it now. He says I'll need to keep elevating it until about 3 weeks are up. He expects I'll be able to walk for extended distances 2 weeks after the stitiches are out and run after 2 more weeks. So far I have no reason to doubt him.
In summary, my surgery experience has been much like the doctor predicted and not really that bad. The lack of mobility for a few weeks is the biggest deal. Let's hope the surgery works and I can go back to my normal running and hiking routine.
A lot of people on the blog had wonderful recoveries. I think mine would have been easy as well but had a bit of a challenge when the dr cut ligaments in the two toes next to the initial incision and they took a bit of time to heal. Anything on my foot hurt... even just a sheet. One good thing and easy solution was my husband got a box from costco that they put your purchased items in. It had one whole side cut out and then a big "U" cut on another side. I would just put my foot through the "U" and the box acted like a bridge and I could bring all the covers up with no problem at all. I doubt it would have been needed had I just had the neuroma removed. Once things started healing it went rapidly. Every day better than the last. It just happens. One day I woke up and things were very apparently getting back to normal.
Thanks to all here. I am about to have surgery in Uk tomorrow, for 2 neuromas in my right foot. One is 12 mm the other 8mm, so you can imagine how difficult it has been for me and that has been at least 20 years! I have arthritis in my hips and they have talked about a hip replacement so I said that my foot continually hurt and hey preston, they are now looking at things holistically! I am anxious because most of you talk about one neuroma over a a few years but I can't wait to be able to walk without a soft padded shoe on. I will keep you informed. Thanks so much for all your advice and to Chris Freeland for his blog which started this lot off. Good luck to you all. Chris, I am definitely going to be on sofa with leg up, although I know that is always difficult for me because I am a compulsive do'er!
Was the neuroma surgery done by a podiatrist, a neurosurgeon, or an orthopedic surgeon specializing in surgery of the foot. I will soon be planning to have this surgery. Thanks
Hi Chris - really appreciate your blog. I'm due for surgery next week (7/22/14). Have had an awful time of things, neuromas in both feet. I'm getting the right one done first, the worst of the two (doc did not recommend doing both at same time). So a little more recovery time before I can drive.
I think I may have had neuromas for quite some time, recall getting sore on the balls of my feet after ice skating/cross country skiing/long hikes starting 6 - 8 years ago or so. I'm an active woman in my 50s, did not wear high heels much as I'm quite tall (5'10"). Who knows why they really got so bad but it's been pure hell since late 2013. I finally learned what was going on when my feet were really killing me just before Christmas and I got myself to see a doc. Also, for many years I have been awakened by night cramps in my feet. I now believe those cramps may have a connection to the neuromas.
Have stayed off my feet a lot this year, tried cortisone shots and orthotics. Helped end the non-stop pain, now it only hurts when I walk. Can hardly bear to walk the 3 or 4 blocks to a nearby restaurant or store, decided I'd finally had enough and it was time to do something about it since conservative treatment had progressed things as far as I felt they would ever get, which was still pretty bad.
In any case, your story has helped me mentally prepare for the surgery. I'm planning on taking 4 - 5 weeks off from work and am taking short term disability leave. Which means a lot of paperwork to do with the state but at least I'll get partial pay (vs. no pay since I don't have much accumulated vacation time). Wish me luck!
--tl
I am 6 1/2 weeks post MN surgery and my foot hurts LIKE HELL ! It's much worse than before my surgery and I am getting very discouraged...being a type A doesn't help, I want it better tomorrow! :-) Still feels like a block of wood is under my incision and walking is VERY painful.
At this point I wish I had never had the surgery but I am NOT going to give up hope that it will simply take more time to be pain free!!
Hi
I find your blog informative and helpful but I felt horrified too. You have mentioned about travelling and I thought every time when I have to travel I must be careful about my footwear. Even constant walking and running with the tight pair of shoes can also lead to Morton’s Neuroma. Since I have read your blog I am constantly reading about Morton’s Neuroma and I want to people to know even appropriate footwear keep away the neuroma in foot. I like your approach of having people to know about Morton’s Neuroma. Thank you for sharing.
I want to share my help through this link.
I hope this is helpful.
Regards
Alan Jones
Chris - thanks for posting (I'm sure you've heard a lot over these years). I just had surgery 2 weeks ago and although so far it's been a normal recovery, my concern is the tops of 2 of my toes (not where the incision was made) are EXTREMELY sensitive if touched. I'm wondering is this is nerve damage - but why in this area? Or is this something that will go away? Other than that I'm doing quite well (stitches out yesterday). Thanks! MG
It is August 16, 2014. I had surgery 3 weeks ago to remove a Morton's neuroma and also had a bunionectomy at the same time. Right now, I am dealing with more pain in the area where the neuroma was excised than pre-surgery. It is a similar electric zing nerve pain, just more intense. It was fairly painful the first week, seemed to subside in the second, but is more intense again. I have not walked on my foot at all, as I still have pins in from the bunion procedure, but I was more active on the knee scooter and wonder if that contributed to the swelling and pain this third week. I pray that the nerve just needs time to settle down, as I have read that has been the experience of some. I am (was) a 41 year old distance runner, and have been for about 5 years consistently. I have had bunions since I was a teen, and feel that this likely contributed to the neuroma formation, though no one can say for certain. Good luck to all of you dealing with this.
I'm about to have my second neuroma surgery (first was on the left foot; now I have one in the right foot). My recovery was much quicker, though. I had surgery Friday and was back at work the following Monday (with my foot up on a chair and a parking spot right outside the door). I started riding an exercise bike with tension after three weeks, walking half a mile after four, and I walked a 5K at seven weeks post-op (after that, I slowly started running again). No crutches even the day of the surgery; I just wore a surgical shoe until the swelling subsided enough that I could fit my foot into a running shoe again. I'm not big on meds, so I only took painkillers for a couple of days, but I was on steroids for a while because the swelling was stubborn.
This time I'll be working from home for a week or two because I assume I won't be able to drive for a bit (since it's my right foot).
My only numbness is between my toes, so I don't notice it unless I touch there. None on the top or bottom of my foot.
The best advice I got: Get a plastic thing meant to cover a cast, so you can shower, and wear the surgical shoe when you have it on, so you have more stability when showering.
Hi Chris, tl here reporting back after my 7/22 surgery.
I'm now almost 5 weeks post-surgery and still having a bit of a rough time recovering. My 4th toe is swollen and gets red, doesn't have much feeling in it. Ball of my foot still quite swollen and tender, swelling doesn't seem to be going down at all. Several bruises on my instep near my ankle still haven't gone away, not sure what caused them (tourniquet during surgery?) compression bandage too tight?). Foot feels tight, stiff across the sole but assume those feelings will go away over time.
Still hobbling around. And my left foot has metatarsalgia so still not walking very much. Trying to get as much non-weight bearing (NWB) exercise as I can (leg lifts, air bicycling, etc.) and keeping the circulation going. Wondering if and when I'll ever be back to normal as both feet have their issues. Still elevating lots as my surgery foot swells often, particularly later in the day.
Really starting to regret the surgery...
Chris, your experience persuaded me to go ahead with the surgery, after two steroid injections failed to help. I am now 3 weeks post surgery. My stitches were removed a week ago (14 days post surgery) but the wound was still gaping. I had the paper stitches applied for a further week. It's still not fully closed but a lot better than it was last week. I am trying to walk around the house without doing too much. My foot feels sore to walk on and I get pins and needles in my toes. There are sometimes sharp twinges but I wouldn't say there was excessive pain. I'm off work for another week so will take it easy for now.
I have spent months researching how to address my neuroma pain and the horror stories have been just that: horrible. Some of the tales have made me vow I would never submit to surgery even though the lesser invasive treatments have all failed. In the meantime I can't run or snowboard anymore. Guess I should be grateful I can still walk, but I sure miss being as active as I once was. It's nice to run across a blog that is more hopeful. Maybe, just maybe, I'll consider surgery.
I'm just over 4 months post-op. Had MN surgery between 2nd and 3rd toes on left side on June 16, 2014 (in from the top). Surgery and initial recovery went well, no real issues, not that painful. Was up and around and moving pretty well in about 2-3 weeks--although I limped and had to be careful how much weight I put on it. I've gradually gotten better and I'd say it hasn't limited my activites too much after about 8 weeks. My biggest issue is that the bottom of my foot has felt swollen from the beginning and continues to feel that way today. However, it does get ever so slightly better as time goes on. I walk normal now and I've trained myself to just walk on the swelling as if its not there. It doesn't really hurt much. The more I use my foot the better it feels, but it will then swell up more after I stop using it. I can walk about 5 miles now without too much trouble and I ran a few miles last night for the first time. Biking and elliptical are not much of an issue any more. Doesn't hurt much but swells alot and is uncomfortable. The shoes I wear have a huge influence on how it feels--the cushier, the better. It appears that everyone heals a little differently and I'm hoping for continuous improvement, but I suspect I'm going to have to deal with this swelling issue for some time to come.
tl here again with an update:
Had a horrible time recovering, was laid up and elevating for 3 months. My doc just kept saying to be patient, healing can take several months. I then tried to go back to work for half days but was too difficult and painful. I just knew something was really, really wrong...
Fast forward to 4 months post surgery, mid-November 2014. In addition to slow healing and a tingling/painful right (surgery) foot, my left foot was also sore and tingly at times, and I was having trouble walking normally. Getting a battery of tests done over the course of a month finally revealed the problem -- B12 deficiency. Low B12 can cause all sorts of problems: peripheral neuropathy, moodiness, fatigue, memory problems and more. Surgeon said that Pathology confirmed the tissue he removed was a neuroma. But I do wonder if the neuroma was somehow triggered by low B12.
Now I'm being treated for pernicious anemia (which caused my low B12), and am recovering from nerve damage that took place over the past year (hopefully it's not permanent, both feet still hurt but a lot less than they did prior to surgery). Nerve pain in my right foot prevents me from being able to drive right now.
So if you're having trouble recovering, or are considering surgery and have symptoms I mentioned (google b12 deficiency symptoms for the full list), GET YOUR B12 CHECKED!!
Is it best to go to a orthopedic or a podiatrist for Morton's neuroma
Hello, all. I am scheduled to have a neuroma surgically removed by an orthopedic foot/ankle surgeon from my left foot, via the top of the foot, on February 12th. I have had this neuroma for about 8 to 10 years. I had two rounds of cortisone shots early on, but they didn't help for more than a week or so. Since then I have just lived with this by getting new orthotics with a metatarsal bump (which I wear in my gym shoes) and by being very careful about what shoes I wear, which is especially difficult because I wear a Narrow. I wear narrow Birkenstock sandals from April through November, but winter is a challenge. If I want to wear a heel, I can sometimes find a wedge-heeled sandal that works, at least in the summer. (I'm a 52 YO woman, by the way.) I strongly avoid walking barefoot at any time - that's the worst!
My question is - Should I have this surgery or just continue to live with this? I don't have a lot of what I would consider PAIN due to the neuroma; it's more of an annoyance and inconvenience. I get an annoying buzzing and tingling in my foot that makes me crazy. At the end of spin class (which I love because I've had knee surgery), the entire front of my foot is numb/tingly. I never have pain when I'm not wearing a shoe or moving, as some people do.
I'm really afraid that I will end up even worse after the surgery than I am now since I can manage it now, but I would LOVE to be rid of this. I considered kobygard ligament release surgery, but I'm afraid that my neuroma is probably so large after all of these years that releasing the ligament alone would not be of much help.
I have an active vacation scheduled four months after the surgery... should I wait and do the surgery after the trip? Or not at all?! I know that I'm the only one who can make this decision, but I'd love some input. (As I sit and type, I'm wearing top-of-the-line New Balance cross-trainers with an orthotic... and my neuroma is lightly buzzing.)
I had my Morton neuroma removed January 29 2014. I had a challenge recovering as my surgeon cut the tendons of the two toes on either side of the incision. He said I was developing hammer toes and this would help prevent it. I had the most discomfort from that. My problem was the swelling. I couldn't wear a shoe. I found for a closed shoe I could wear a sketchup go walk but had to buy 2 pairs. My surgery foot was one full size bigger than before. I also got uggs. I just put a dr Scholls gel pad in the other shoe which I had on hand after years of trying to make the bad foot comfortable. I know they told me 6 week recovery. Bull. After continuing to call.. out patient therapy and discomfort (massive swelling) my surgeon finally admitted it takes a full year to recover. That has been my experience. They don't tell you the truth. So my ligament cit ting may have set my recovery back I was lucky enough to have just moved to NC and had not started looking for work so I didn't have to go stand or walk though I did go out and take walks. I was very active in the gym and boot camp.. weights running and power walking before the surgery. Unfortunately I had to have hip replacement on the opposite leg December 9th of 2014 but that recovery is a piece of cake. I think my foot issue came feom sports and heels. Wear heels sparingly. I used to shop michogan Avenue and had every designer heel and height imaginable. Running in heels? No problem. I finally resigned to the fact that I had to release them and sold them all. A sad day. I am sad sonce I am a fashion girl but so grateful the pain I had is gone. I still get those little "twinges" that I got after the surgery here and there and my foot is wider than it was but I am so happy I did it. DON'T go barefoot. Just a word of advice. My hip surgeon used to do feet and he gave me some great info on that. I was a california girl my whole life so no shoes and flip flops on the beach was a staple. Good luck and get some comfy shoes for your trip. Try the sketchers go walks. They saved my.life.
Thanks so much for this post! I have had really terrible ankle issues ever since my high school basketball days, so this was a really great read. Keep up the good work on this blog!
I'm DONE!!!!!!! I can’t take the pain anymore....My Morton’s Neuroma has been killing me for over a year and a half. I am 6'1, 230 police office/ SWAT, who is on his feet all day long, then jumps into the softball coach on the weekends. My feet never get a break. I tried the orthotics (which squeak like hell as I walk), cortisone shots and rubbing alcohol injections…..nothing is helping. I just confirmed my surgery date in two weeks (2-5-2015). I am nervous, but also can’t wait to get back to running and let alone walking without being in pain. I need to return back to work ASAP, so any tips to a faster recovery or hints during my recovery time.
March 2015 - Pending surgery for both MN and bunion, one on each foot. Am I crazy to do both at same time, as recommended by podiatrist? He says it would be one less time to go under anesthesia. What should I expect about recovery - how long and how painful? I am 62 y.o. and live alone but have friends to help. How should I prep home for post-op. When can I return to work to which I need to drive?
My insurance does not cover a podiatrist, but my M.D. suspects that I have possible old broken bones and neuromas in both feet, along with plantar fasciitis, and bunions. The PAIN is UNREAL. I had x-rays today, and then a follow up to be referred to an ortho.
Like you, I wasn't on my feet a lot until a job change and now- as a caregiver, 16 hours a day (on call 24/7). I probably need surgery, but who will take care of me (and my dog)? I have no one. And my 2 patient will have to hire someone to cover for me and I WILL NOT GET PAID, so I am freaking out.
I am glad for your blog though- I am now more informed on what goals I need to shoot for (as in figuring out how I can do this and be laid up for awhile).
THANK YOU for writing!~
ALSO, THANK YOU to the people who wrote comments- Those have been SUPER HELPFUL also!
Two of my friends had the Surgery. One still has pain, after 2 years, and the other where they took out the vein, now the pain is up further on her foot. Has the Surgeon told anyone that? I have Neuroma for over 12 years, refused Surgery. I wear an extra wide shoe, mostly Sneakers, but I still can't walk over 100 feet without resting my foot. Good Luck to all
Hi Chris
Thanks for your blog. I work in construction and my concern is if I stepped on a nail in the area that was numb would I be able to tell.
My recovery from MN surgery was improved by lots of time on my yoga mat. First day just small movements, then stretching, body weight exercises, core work for 5-10 minutes every couple of hours. At first, feet straight up in air situps, slow leg lift, slow scissors and 'air bycycling', then on to my back for supermans, swimming movéments, donkeykicks, single leg downward dog. Stretching forward bends, neck and shoulder looseners, lots of one leg plank and a few knee pushup. Just keep moving, even if you have to rest a lot. Your reps are super slow, controlled should feel pleasant and gentle. Gentle posotive blood flow. April 2015.
What are Crocks?
Mary Ann
It has been TEN MONTHS since my MN surgery and the pain is worse than before my surgery.. My surgeon suggested a custom orthotic from her "group" and it cost $220.00... I was horrified at the cost and the fact that it has not helped ONE bit...I have many, many inserts, etc and none of them help....I would NEVER have this surgery again...hope there are SUCCESS stories out there, mine is NOT !
10 months after surgery.. pain is worse in my foot.... a recent $220.00 orthotic (suggested by my surgeon) has NOT helped... wish I had NEVER had this surgery.
My orthotics cost $320.00 and don't make much of a difference. I see an ortho surgeon in a few weeks. Hoping shots might help.
If orthotics don't work then it could be something else other than a neuroma. Explore all possibilities before undergoing neuroma surgery.
I trusted my doctors but they were wrong about my pain being caused by a neuroma (diagnosed by both my GP and podiatrist). Perhaps the neuroma was a side effect but my pain was triggered by an unknown (at that time) long term B12 deficiency. Was in so much pain so had neuroma surgery, things went very bad after that. I almost died because recuperating from surgery requires lots of B12 to heal and not having enough causes severe problems. 3 months went by before my B12 was finally tested during one of my several ER visits. In the meantime my doctor put me on an antidepressant (B12 deficiency can cause moodiness and depression), had shooting pains in my legs and needed a walker, had palpitations, terrible insomnia. Saw an endocrinologist and a neurologist, neither thought to check my B12.
Get your B vitamin levels tested (particularly B6 and B12 which can cause nerve problems), and also vitamin D. I don't know why they aren't tested more often in the US but they ought to be.
I've been on disability since surgery 9 months ago and still am unwell since my pernicious anemia was so advanced. And my surgery foot is stiff and sore, will never be right again. I wish I had never had this surgery it has ruined my life.
My b12 level is good, but I did shots anyway. I felt no difference. I wish it was just a b12 issue, and I'm glad it was just that for others.
Awesome post thank you!
You obviously had a great Dr. I had surgery 8 days ago at Emory. Along with a neuroma I had a large bunion and bone spur removed.
No where near the pleasent post op experience, no crackers lol
The office just called me yesterday to check on me for the first time! Pain has been horrible and the few pain pills weak and gone. Today I was told I could come back for another prescription, ha! It's over an hour away, I can't drive, really!
Looking forward to being pain free!
Thanks
2 months out, I would summarize my experience as 2 weeks totally down (i used crutches to get around), 2 weeks of hobbling about, weeks 5-6 learning to walk again, and now at week 8 I can walk a mile or two, painfree, but further than that my foot swells and feels puffy. Based on this rate of recovery, i sense the 'marble' feeling should be gone in about another month or so.
I would like to recommend Kelo-Cote. It made my scar much more subtle.
Thanks Chris for your blog and personal story. I'm putting this post up in the hopes of helping others from my experience. I have walked for exercise for 35 years, daily. I felt MN coming on for the last 15. When I felt it I would take aspirin and stop walking for awhile and it would seem to go away for a while. About a year ago, it resumed in both feet. It didn't go away, very painful. I visited a podiatrist, had x-rays and the doctor felt the click in both feet, diagnosed MN. I bought $300.00 orthotics from him. I didn't like the feel from the beginning, they made my shoes tight, and caused my toes to bend in an unnatural way that made be realize that wearing them was going to result in additional toe issues. After researching the net, I decided to try the "barefoot" approach. I am lucky to be home so I can go barefoot everyday, year round. It has helped a lot. I realize most people don't have that opportunity. At times the pain was so bad, that I've considered surgery or better yet, cryosurgy. But now after almost a year and a half, my feet are feeling much better. I can't wear my old shoes though. I usually wore Merrels, Brooks or Keen. I have come to realize that the flexing of the sole gives me problems. I feel best with a shoe that has an inflexible but shaped and padded, like Dansko's or Alegria. Also it feels best if the heel is not higher than the ball of the foot (Zerodrop). That way I do not lean forward and put extra pressure on the forefoot. I also need a wide toe with no tapering in. Those two shoes are the only brands I can wear. The Alegria is a rocker type sole, that is padded with memory foam and because it does not bend, it's like walking barefoot. Barefoot feels very good to me. Now I have hope that maybe I'm going to be able to manage this. I'm hoping that the nerve swelling will go down over time, but who knows. I don't think anyone can answer that question. I may try wearing Birkenstocks, but I'm tired of buying shoes that don't work for this problem. Good luck to all with your issues, Jan
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Hi Chris,
I am so glad that the treatments, surgery and recovery have been successful for you. Thank you so much for this blog! I am airline crew on long haul flights, sometimes 19 hours on my feet as I am on international flights worldwide. . Wonderful but very painful with Mortons in both feet! The last three years I know now that I had been suffering symptoms of MN 's in both feet. I always have worn sensible well made shoes, never ridiculously high heels! My Mortons has been misdiagnosed several times and I trawled the Internet and found Mortons! I finally saw a consultant and the option in the U.K. Is a scan, immediately followed by cortisone injections then last option surgery!! We have a French doctor in the family and on consulting him on a recent holiday he said that the injections were a waste of time and to Argue for the surgery! Any thoughts!?
I have had injections for tennis elbow and noticed wasted muscle and not much improvement! Having been on the internet( a mine field I know!) I keep coming across Serrapeptase, Vit B and a derivitave of Tumeric...has anyone used these. I confess I have bought them in the hope that apparently they may shrink the tumour. I have just done a 19 hour day on my feet and feet weren't as sore, but still did have pain after taking these tabs for 2 weeks . Just desperate to avoid surgery and will have to wait at least 3 months for next step( scan and cortipzone) . Just very concerned as been told I only need to take two weeks off work after the surgery!!
Thanks for all this information, it's been wonderful!
Lorraine x
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Thank you, thank you, thank you! Just had the surgery today and appreciate the heads up of how you got thru it. Following the same instructions from nurse friends who've had the procedure and they are dancing again.
Kind Regards,
Yolanda
Hi
I am day 11 post surgery and had bandaging removed yesterday. Still have stitches in situ and small dressing over op site, foot is very colourful. Post op the pain has been nothing to what I experienced beforehand. My MN was toes 3/4 and had surgery through the top of foot as day patient and was encouraged to walk in surgical shoe weight bearing from day 1 for 15 minutes each hour and elevate for 45 minutes. This has worked well but I can't stress how important for reducing swelling the elevation has been to keep swelling down.
I am due back at work next week and really not sure what I will be wearing on my feet. I had my day 10 check up with consultant yesterday, I will not be driving for another four weeks and no heels for a few months..I can ditch the surgical shoe but have to something wear flat, wide toe box - glamorous? I don't think so but it will be worth it
Hi-
I have had a MN for a very long time and over the past five years I've had to stop doing most everything I enjoy (backpacking, mt biking, running, hiking, and more recently walking). Over the years I tried all of the "conservative" measures (Physical therapy with electrical stimulation, custom and over the counter orthodics, cortizone shots, switched ALL my shoes out with low heeled shoes and birkenstocks).
I also tried Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) which is a pain management technique that is widely used for nerves in the back and neck, and is now being used for MN too. They insert a probe into your foot as close as they can to the MN and kill the nerve by cooking it at 80 degrees C. It was really hard to find a doctor that offers RFA. After lots of research and phone calls I finally found a dr. in WAshington State (most all dr.'s who offer RFA are on the East coast). It defineately reduced the pain, and I would highly recommend others try RFA prior to choosing surgery since it is minimally invasive and research shows it has an 80% success rate for MN. I had three RFA prodedures over 4 months with improvements after each - but not enough for me to return to the activities I love.
So I had the surgery on 10/30/15 and am now 4 days post op. So far so good. My dr. gave me a knee scooter instead of crutches and that is really helpful to get around on (and a bit fun too). I am trying to stay off the foot entirely for the first two weeks and only be up and around when I absolutely have too (not an easy task with two kids, a full time job and a mom with alzheimers). I figure it took a long time to get to this point, and I really, really want this to work so I am going to try to follow the advice on this fantastic blog. Thanks for your stories and insights! - Renee
Hi there!
Thank you all for the insight on MN. It's been good to read everyone's experience with surgery. I've been suffering from neuromas in my feet for almost two years. I had cortisone injections that temporarily helped but I've already had 3 in each foot. Surgery seems to be my next option.
I'm in so much pain I had to stop my work as a flight attendant. I can barely walk at all now. I was told by my podiatrist that I should get "cryotherapy" done. Has anyone ever heard of/had this procedure done? I'm concerned because its newer than traditional surgery, equally as painful, and costly. However, there's no risk of developing a stump neuroma. I woukd appreciate any feedback.
-Sierra
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I have read this entire post probably 5 times at various stages of dealing with morton's neuroma in my right foot. It was between the 2nd and 3rd toes. I tried orthotics and 2 cryosurgeries since the first one did not work. I had one cortisone shot a couple of yrs ago and that did nothing. Cryosurgery was basically a wallet biopsy! After 2 tries and $3,500.00 later the procedures did not work.
I decided on surgery even though it seemed like a huge risk to take. Long story getting longer, I ran my first marathon this past year before surgery in case I cannot run again. I used to run half marathons (slowly) and ran about 25+ miles per week for yrs. I'm not an amazing runner by any means but it is how I relieve stress. I had surgery on 8/27/2015 and 14 weeks later I'm concerned it did not solve the problem. An ortho surgeon did the surgery and seemed very confident about it.
Everyone is different and maybe I'm just headed for the failure rate column. My symptoms still include burning and stinging in the 2nd toe, a weird and not pleasant nerve sensation where I believe the end of the nerve is, and much swelling. I ice and elevate as much as possible - even at work when I am able to do so. I did not resume running until 8 weeks post-op but I can only run/jog about 2x per week for 4 miles, but do so with pain.
I realize this was a long post but for 3 yrs I spent a ton of money, saw 2 pods, 2 ortho surgeons and finally had the surgery. Unfortunately at 14 weeks I thought I'd be in a better place. Thank goodness I live in AZ because wearing any closed toe shoes and socks is unpleasant. Although it's in the 40s at night so the feet do get cold in flip flops. I hope others are having much more success and I hope Mr Stump is not trying to make an appearance in my right foot. Anyone find that although they had nerve pains, burning, etc at 3-4 months that things still got better after that. I know patience is important but the last 2 weeks my right foot has been feeling worse than some previous weeks.
Oh and PS I have always thought I had a neuroma in my left foot but after this experience I would not opt for surgery. As for cryosurgery, for me it was a complete waste of money and I wouldn't recommend it.
You will have numbness and pain for a year. Trust me- you will run again, in a year or so!! After scar tissue and swelling heal in a year- you forget you had a neuroma! Phantom nerve pain sucks, it happens for a year! Take up biking for now/ wear orthotics forever and 1-2 years as time marches on and your foot heals, scar tissue settles out you will be good again!! Hang in there! 2 years Post my neuroma surgery my foot felt good to run! I'm 5 years post-op! Wear orthotics to run/ the nerve pain takes a year or so to die off!!! Surgery is for the long haul! Forgot about this post till now !! You will be fine!!
AS- Maryland
Thank you for your post AS-Maryland. I've been a very cranky person to live with lately. When your feet hurt it's hard to stay positive. I do use our stationary recumbent bike at home which we call the grinder because although it goes up to level 20 for resistance, anything past level 5 is suicide. I am on my 4th pair of orthotics but will get new ones due to blisters. Your situation is very encouraging. Thank you for the post and an extra thank you for not telling me to try swimming. I loved swimming as a kid but not so much today! If it takes a year that is fine - there are just so many horror stories and stump neuroma stories out there you can't help but worry. On a lighter note I did name my neuroma - Norma Neuroma - and my ortho surgeon sent me a picture of it with a message stating "congrats it's a girl." I wanted to see it to make sure it was indeed a neuroma because misdiagnosis has also been an issue for many. Best wishes to everyone out there struggling over this condition. Others cannot comprehend the pain and anxiety it causes!
The surgeons say ok 2-3 months but it takes a long time for any surgery! I spin, run, yoga! I even go barefoot and so does my friend who had one out too! It takes a long time but those weird pain does go away after a year or so! It's terrible having your foot hurt- but it gets normal again as time marches on! My friend also had a neurons out its been 2 years for him but same thing it took a long time to get back in running!
Getting that neuroma out got me my activity back!! Surgery is never a quick 3 month recovery! Long haul
You are all correct about the long haul on the recovery time for this surgery! I had one removed in August of 2015 and finally in July.\/August of 2015 I was pain free! Some residual swelling lingered for a little while but I soaked with Epson salts and downed Alpha Lipoic acid to help with the healing from day one. Ice was crucial for at least the first six months for me and off and on beyond that. Shoes remain an issue---no elevated high heels. But I did find some Earth Spirit Gelron's that actually had the met pad and heel pad built in. A great find. and very helpful. I too was petrified out of my mind as to whether or not I developed a stump Neuroma. I also have one in the left foot but it is not bothersome at this time. Not willing to rush back into surgery. The surgeon who did the right foot was an Orthopedic who specialized in the foot and ankle. I read all the literature pertaining to tis procedure and made sure he was 'tucking the end of the nerve into the arch of the foot' so it would not be a problem. I believe he did just that. He also said he had never had any one complain with a stump neuroma. Hang in there and all will work out.
I am day 4 post surgery and feeling a little ginger. I had 2 neuromas removed from my left foot and 1 from the right side. The right foot feels much better than the left side. Will keep you updated
Hello All,
I am being scheduled to see a surgeon about my right foot MR. Still have to get an MRI done. My story began when going up and down a ladder a couple of dozen times while cleaning the gutters in October. So the MR occurred immediately after that day. Thinking I had bruised something I gave it two weeks and the began researching and the MR seemed like the culprit. My ultrasound confirmed that fact. I have not tried any of the measures I see here, re: injections, massage. I get a bit of comfort from the metatarsal pads, but the pain persists if I overdo it. A year ago I walked 95 miles around San Francisco on holiday and the thought of that makes me sad, I don't think I could do a km now. I'm still on the fence, it's my feet after all, and I don't want to muck anything up - but this blog seems to have fewer of the nightmare scenarios I have read so far online. Perhaps people don't realize the recovery time required in order to heal. I'll keep checking back to follow up on everyone's progress. It will probably be a 4-5 month wait to see a surgeon. Happy Trails.
Very interesting to read about the experiences of others; my neuroma, which the podiatrist told me post-op was "huge" (about the footprint of the nail on his pinky finger) was between my fourth and fifth toes, classic (but not only) location for Morton's. I was in and out in 2 hours, start-to-finish, and became very familiar with the foot-up, body-down position, and soon mastered the use of my good leg bent up to create an easel for my laptop (back to work! no rest for the weary! a week after surgery). Interestingly I had close to no post-op pain (though I did have plenty of "paresthesias" creepy like ants and worms moving around inside my foot, especially at night) until the stitches came out at 10 days, and I was told I could start bearing weight "as tolerated." I was strongly encouraged to hurry up to restore normal calf-muscle motion, The Great Preventer of Blood Clots. So at 12 days I was up in running shoes (surprisingly comfortable, for short periods at least) and ASAP turned in the rented crutches, on which I never felt secure, and the roll-a-bout "knee-wheelie" that allowed me to mobilize independently right away but that colored my knee and shin with huge, very tender pink bruises that persist to this day, just short of four full weeks post-op.
The podiatrist also told me I would have good days and bad, and he was quite right. Doesn't seem to make any difference whether I walk/stand a lot or a little, whether I spend a lot of time with the foot elevated or not. The one thing that I have identified as leading to discomfort is sitting in a chair, even if my foot is up on a stool. I think butt-against-seat-foot-down does impede good return of blood/fluids and I can count on my foot swelling uncomfortably within 30 minutes. Unexpectedly, walking around makes me feel better. I'm wearing a slip-on clog-like shoe with a supportive but cushioned foot bed and wide toe box that I can quickly get my foot out of and gently massage to (usually successfully) derail tingling and twinges. Foot is still very sensitive to touch in a circle around the incision (dorsal, not plantar) which otherwise has healed quite nicely.
I would really like some feedback on when I might hope to get on a regular shoe or boot (I live where winter is the real deal and this February). At this point I can't even comfortably wear a thin sock between me and the cushy clog or running shoe.
Having said all that, in spite of the various weird and unfamiliar sensations of healing, I haven't had anything like that "hot toothpick inserted between the toes" the neuroma caused for too many years.
Impatient to return to real exercising, a month of taking it this easy is enough to noticeably lose core and leg strength!
I just had surgerya week ago. Get stitches out next week. Glad i had it done. But it is boringjust laying arpund. Been taking drs advice and elevating foot as much as possible not taling psin meds as much still cant drive fir 3mos
I know this is an old post but I'm having trouble finding any recent Morton's Neuroma forums. Are people still commenting here? I have a couple post surgery questions.........
Hannah I'm no expert on this but I am approximately 6 months post-op and posted above about having cryosurgeries that didn't work. I wish I had better results to report but I'm still holding out hope that at the one year mark I'll see a lot of improvement. A few others have mentioned that it took a year before their foot felt normal. I'm still running about 3-4 days per week (approx 5 miles per run). I'm running much slower than prior to surgery though and with pain every time I run. I'm also getting blisters from my orthotics. It's like throwing salt in the wounds. Anyway, I'm happy to try to answer your post surgery questions based on my own personal experience. I suppose it would help to give my name. It's Tina.
Thanks Tina. What is cryosurgery? I had the normal in through the top of my foot method. I think my recovery is going well. I'm two weeks out with not much pain. But my one toe keeps getting this burning numb feeling like when you're out in the snow too long. Mostly when I'm sitting still. Just wondering if that's normal and if it will go away...
Hannah it sounds like you're doing well so far and as everyone says in these blogs it takes a long time to heal. I'm just concerned the surgery did not work for me but haven't given up yet and hope it's still just a matter of time. I also had the neurectomy with a dorsal (top of the foot) approach but before that I tried 2 cryosurgeries which did nothing and cost me $3,500. With cryosurgery they make a really tiny incision between the two toes where the neuroma is, insert a probe via ultrasound guidance and the "ball" at the end of the probe is an ice ball for lack of a better term. The goal is to freeze the neuroma to deaden the nerve (I don't believe that actually happens). Many posted having relief from this, and it's noninvasive so I decided to try it before having actual surgery. Based my own experience, which I realize is anecdotal, I don't recommend cryosurgery.
My best advice for you is to ice and elevate every day. At 6 months post-op I still wake up with a swollen foot and I bring my triple-layered ziplock bag of ice to work. My foot is also usually swollen after work and after exercising. When I ice and elevate the swelling goes down. The nerve sensations, burning into the toe, etc are symptoms others have indicated they experienced as well. My 2nd toe (the neuroma was between 2 and 3) gives me the most symptoms to this day. Burning and stinging. The scar area also burns particularly after running, but icing and massage help alleviate that issue to some degree. You have a lot more healing ahead of you and what you're experiencing at 2 weeks sounds normal when reading all of these posts.
I'm not sure what foot you had the surgery on but I could not drive for at least 4 weeks. I'm still most comfortable in flip flops. I think I started exercise (recumbent bike and weights) 6 weeks out and waited until 8 weeks to do some short jogs.
Good luck to you Hannah and to everyone else who is recovering from surgery or dealing with a Morton"s neuroma. This is a really unpleasant condition to have to live with. I have one in my left foot as well but right now I have no desire to go through another surgery unless I see some improvement from the one that I had on my right foot. ~ Tina
Tina - why do you feel like the surgery didn't work? Do you still have neuroma symptoms? My main symptom from my neuroma was just pain in my 4th toe. I couldn't walk in barefeet at all.. With sneakers it wasn't bad though I did have to stop running. The more cushioning I had the less it bothered me. But I got to the point where it was annoying not to be able to do the things I wanted and wear the shoes I wanted so I opted for the surgery. My orthopedic doc kind of made the surgery out to be no big deal so I wasn't really prepared for how crazy some of your healing processes have been!!! I'm only two weeks out but I can almost walk normally. I don't completely put my full weight on the injured foot but I'm close. And it is my right foot and I'm driving with no problem. Just wondering why some people have such long and painful recoveries?! And others I've read were back to running 4-6 miles after just a few weeks??
Hannah the reasons why I don't believe the surgery has been a success include the fact that I decided to undergo surgery because of running, as the neuroma became increasingly more painful after 2+ yrs of conservative treatment. Unfortunately after 6 months, I am still unable to run as I did before surgery. Last February I ran my first marathon (and slowly but I finished :)) and that was with the full blown neuroma. Right now I run about 15-20 miles per week and at a much slower pace than prior to surgery. I have not been able to go back to 30-35 miles per week and I always have symptoms of burning and stinging in the second toe, burning in the scar area, and I can rub where I believe the end of the cut nerve is and feel an unpleasant "nervy" sensation. I have yet to do a run longer than 6-7 miles at one time and before surgery I did a few half-marathons per year. Heels are out of the question still and I shouldn't be wearing them anyway. After 20+ yrs of wearing them for work everyday I suspect that is why I got these nasty neuromas. If I only I knew that could happen I would have made smarter choices with footwear.
I have read about those who ran within just weeks, had no issues, etc. and they are very fortunate. This has been a long haul for me so far. I couldn't wear regular shoes until the 4th or 5th week. To this day I am only comfortable in certain flip flops or sandals. I only wear socks and shoes to run because socks also get uncomfortable. Thank goodness I live in AZ.
I did go back to my ortho surgeon last week. He is puzzled by the symptoms that still exist in my second toe. We're going to wait the year to see if it improves. He does not think it is a stump neuroma thank goodness. If it were I would probably go through the roof when he presses the nerve ending but I don't. I can feel it and even feel sensations going into the toe but not to the point of severe pain.
Sorry for the long post. It's always helpful to talk with others who are going through this. I was just hoping for even a 50% rate of improvement, but that's not the case so far. That is excellent that you can drive. Getting rides to work for 4 weeks was an additional burden. It sounds like you're healing is going very well. Just don't overdo it this early. Patience apparently is the key with this surgery.
Have you had issues ever since surgery? I feel like so far I'm healing quickly but nervous for something bad to happen...
Hannah - Try to stay positive and give your foot the rest, ice, and elevation it needs. When people try to do too much too soon that likely causes them to have setbacks. The first few weeks after surgery I had a lot of pain which included the pain from the surgery itself which is expected after having your foot cut open and a piece of nerve removed. From 6 weeks post-op to the present I have had the burning, stinging pain into my second toe. Before surgery the second toe was also symptomatic. Hopefully you will be one of the fortunate ones who will be back to your usual exercise routine in just a few weeks. I would caution against heels though. I have a closet full of pretty shoes but don't have it in me to box them up, even after 2 years of not wearing them.
I was off work today so I pushed myself to run (or more like jog) 8.25 miles. It was painful and I'm back on the couch with an ice pack on the surgery foot and a frozen water bottle that I'm rolling my left foot over due to the neuroma in that foot. Makes for a really exciting Friday night. 🙄 ~ Tina
I'm so sorry for you. I hope you find some relief soon. I actually find that the past couple of days my foot feels better the more I walk around on it. It seems like the swelling and pain stay away that way. It's when I'm at rest that the one toe starts bothering me and the swelling seems to pack up. So I'm hoping to get back to exercise sometime soon but not until I'm pain free and fitted with orthotics. I've been doing upper body weights and Pilates for now.
I just wanted to report that it seems that the nerve pain I was having is gone at this point. I am walking better but still feel like there's a marble in the ball of my foot near the base of the toes. There is also one spot on the bottom of my foot that if I put weight on it or push on it and it sends that electric pain through my toes. I hope this is a normal part of the recovery?
I have the same problem. Anytime my foot isn't propped up the tingling and throbbing is unbearable. I'm only at day 4 post op....
Hi I'm Shelia and I'm at day 4 post surgery. All I can do I lay in bed with my foot propped up. If I get up my foot tingles and throb really bad. I was thinking of going back to work after 1 week; however, I don't think that's a good idea. I have 2 incisions on the top of my right foot and scheduled to do my left foot in 3 months....
Being in bed all day is the worst for me!!!!
Hi Chris
Thanks for sharing your story. I just had my surgery go and I go to the doctor in three more days hopefully the stitches will come out and I'll be able to walk. I have kept in my foot up but I have not really had a lot of pain. Again thanks for sharing and yes if I had to do it all over again I would do it again have a great one
Hi Chris
Thanks for sharing your story. I just had my surgery go and I go to the doctor in three more days hopefully the stitches will come out and I'll be able to walk. I have kept in my foot up but I have not really had a lot of pain. Again thanks for sharing and yes if I had to do it all over again I would do it again have a great one
Like most of you, I am SO glad to have found your blog Chris!! I am Day 3 post op and today was the day the pain arrived. If not for this blog, I would have freaked, I think. I'm off to the States in 5 weeks- all the previous bloggers who are way past my stage of recovery- do you think my foot will be OK by then? Thanks in advance
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Hi I am 13 days post surgery and have a lot of pins and needles, throbing and pressure. I am also scared to weight bare as my foot still feels so sore. I am worried the pins and needles have been here too long and I have damage. Did it eventually got away for you? Thanks Emma
Emma - I think you just need to give it some time. I know that's frustrating to hear but that's my experience. I'm exactly 2 months out now and doing great. There are still some sore spots and such but I am virtually pain free. It doesn't hurt at all walking with shoes or in bare feet. There are just spots that hurt when I push on it. Of course I'm having issues now with my SI joint and piriformis muscle....grrr.
cryosurgery
I recently had my cryosurgery and im in a very similar situation to you. We are also the same heigh and around the same weight, it has been hard over the last months but im making a sterling recovery after the surgery!
I had operation 4/19/16 and In my 2nd week recovery. I still get tingling, electrical zaps usually at night when I am resting watching TV. I also get chills occasionally without a fever and my toes will ache like I have arthritis. This is what usually wakes me up 1/2 through the night. I also have one or two toe nails hurt at the same time which I don't understand as they aren't where the nerve was removed.
I was instructed to ice my ankle throughout the day and when reclining to elevate foot above the heart (to reduce swelling).
Was instructed to stop icing upon my 1 wk post-op. As majority of posters, I hobble around with the surgical shoe and will until 2wk post-op when the stitches are removed. Then I was told to bring my sneakers to wear home.
Walked too much one day and foot swelled and I was physically exhausted.
No one mention this - my symptoms occurred overnight (literally). I woke up with brain fog and both feet feeling like I was wearing socks.
Took 2 years of going to emergency room, neurologists, orthopedic, endocrinologist and GP. Neighbor suggested seeing his podiatrist,who in 10 min informed I had 2 neuromas in one foot and 1 neuroma in the other foot. He gave me a shot in each foot and overnight all the symptoms wrote in posts surfaced and he brain fog went away. It was a cortisone shot. One week later he did a second shot. Two weeks later he did the first foot. Next foot will be done in 8 weeks.
I am now 19 days after surgery, from the top of the foot, to remove neuromas from each foot between toe 2 and 3.
The right foot is in great shape, can walk normally in the post op boot, and virtually no pain.
In week 1, virtually no pain in left foot either.
In week 2: The left has little to no swelling, I am pain free all day long, can walk normally during the day............ but around 5:00 am 2 times during week I had fairly intense throbbing pain right in the MN area. It goes away as soon as I am up and walking about or relaxing again during the day.
Now In week 3, the late night/ early morning pain is happening almost every night, and the pain is more intense. A slowly throbbing pain that feels like fire or stabbing where the MN was. It still goes away when I get up and move around.
I've read every post on this great forum, but haven't seen quite these circumstances, so thought I would share.
Has anyone else had these symptoms?
Am a little concerned, but certainly less so after reading this great blog...............
KW in Colorado
Just curious if anyone who had the surgery several months or years ago still keeps up with this thread?! I am about 4 months post surgery. I consider my surgery a success in that I am free from all neuroma pain. I'm back to running, walking and normal activity and have been for a while. But my foot is still sore at times. First few steps in the AM it's always sore. I wouldn't call it "pain" just soreness. And when I'm on my feet for a while or on days that I run it definitely feels sore and tired. No biggie but just curious if this is normal, will eventually go away, etc. My surgeon said they tell people it can take 6-12 months to feel completely 100% normal
Hey all, am posting this on May 31, 2016. To answer a question that keeps coming up, I do keep up with the blog and reach out, often individually, to those who ask questions. It's been 5.5 years since I had the surgery and wrote the original post, and have been thinking it's time to write a followup piece that covers the time since I posted this. Until then, in short, I have zero regrets about the surgery, my quality of life is definitely better, and I would definitely have the surgery again. More soon!
Anyone needing more info go to my video's on youtube https://www.youtube.com/user/MsApe420
it's been 4 years since the surgery and I'm doing very well still. I hope all the best for everyone dealing with this problem.
My MN surgery was performed the morning of June 29, 2016. I left the outpatient facility wearing a walking boot. I could walk very short distances on the heel. I thought I could do without the 10-325 Hydrocodone / Acetaminophen. I learned my lesson about 6 hours later when a slight tingle turned into significant pain.
Definitely keep your foot elevated and dry. I was given a Sealtight Freedom cast/bandage protector for use in the shower. It worked much better than cling wrap or plastic bags. I'm looking forward to my follow-up on July 15th.
Chris this has been very helpful for me, so thank you so much for posting. I'm at day 18 and still haven't had my stitches out and haven't been able to drive. I started feeling pain in November of 2015 and finally had my surgery in July of 2016. I can't tell yet if it has been the right decision as of yet. Have been icing and elevating for over 2 weeks now and working from home. Will post after stitches come out. Anxious to drive again...going stir crazy at home. Thank God for family and friends helping me, especially my husband waiting on me hand and foot or I don't know what I would do!
Thanks for this blog, this has been by far the most useful reference since having surgery and has really helped me stop stressing. I put off having surgery for 7 years and had many mixed messaged on recovery in the lead up and following surgery. One thing has become very clear, everyone's recovery is different and you just have to go with it safe in the knowledge that eventually it will come right.
I am now 3.5 weeks after surgery, I can drive comfortably (although emergency breaking is a bit uncomfortable) and can walk but without putting full weight on the ball of my foot or toes. I explain it to people at work by saying it feels like I have three or four marbles under the ball of my foot and I am walking on pins and needles all the time. I have bought a pair of ugly but comfortable veramed shoes for work, but feel much more happy in socks . All exercise is on hold at the moment, my foot gets swolen and sore quickly when walking along with my ankle and lower leg from limping along.
Oh and as side more I was terrified of getting stitches out after reading comments (was hyperventilating) but I felt nothing, I did dose up on pain killers beforehand. Also agree with previous comments that Dr give very mixed messages on recovery time etc. I came home with no surgical boot/crutches and it was hard going. If I had a crutch now I would totally use it as exhausting walking without some support, thinking of going to second hand shops this weekend to get walking stick.
Good luck everyone with your recoveries. Thanks again for creating this blog.
Just curious if anyone is further out from surgery and what your experience is with healing time? I am almost 7 months post op. I had a Morton's Neuroma removed from my right foot. I'm back to running 3-4 miles a few days awake, normal activities, etc. But my foot just feels fatigued all the time still. Like the ball of my foot and top of my foot still just feels tired quite often, like how you feel when you're on your feet all day. And I still have pain in my 4th toe....definitely WAY better than prior to surgery but just curious if this is normal healing?! The surgeon said it could take up to a year to fully heal.......anyone else hear this?
Hi. I cannot believe how many posts and for how long this blog has been going; thank you Chris!
I am day 13 having had MN removed from top of foot AND tarsal tunnel too on same foot! Scary stuff. I have read page one of the comments and so far, haven't seen anyone else that has had this surgery at the same time too. It scares me. Will I walk again?? I am following all the recovery guidelines and have stitches out this coming Friday. Chris, can you remember when you started massage of the incision areas? And also, would anyone have a link to suitable PT exercises? THANKS all.
So glad i found this blog, it really does help to know im not alone!
I had my neuroma nearly 2years and put iff surgery because of the horror stories but then it become too painful. Anyway im 3days post op, alls good but i do get a cold feeling in my foot and puns and needles but i guess this is normal..
Here's my experience so far:
The short version: After following the doctor's instructions, I've had very little pain and have remained relatively mobile.
I had the surgery Tuesday morning, Jan 10, 2017. Today is Saturday the 14th.
That first day I stayed in a recliner all day, foot elevated above my heart and ice packs on my ankle throughout the day. Lots of napping, but no pain. Bathroom breaks were the only time I walked, and did so without any discomfort. The surgical boot has stayed on constantly since leaving the hospital.
I took a Lortab that night in case pain set in, but slept through the night on the recliner and woke with just a slight ache in the area around the incision.
Then another day and night in the recliner with ice packs and elevation, and no pain. There were occasional tingles, but nothing distressing.
Thursday morning a friend drove me to work. I took a Lortab just in case, but probably didn't need it. I was there from 8-2pm, spending most of my time at my desk but with occasional walks to other offices in the same building. I took crutches with me, but they were unwieldy so I ended up just hobbling with the surgical boot.
Thursday night I could feel some activity in my foot, mostly some tingles and aches, but they were more interesting than disruptive.
Friday I stayed home, but walked around the house quite a bit while taking care of some chores.
This morning -- Saturday -- I drove to a diner about a mile away, using a manual transmission. The surgical boot kept the clutch pedal from focusing its pressure, and by being careful I had little trouble other than a slight ache when I returned to the house.
Complete healing will take a long time, and I expect there will be some bad days, but so far I'm very happy I had the surgery. The pain from my neuroma had gotten so severe and constant that I was having to change my life to adapt to it. I had only one pair of shoes that didn't cause pain, and I had to wear them all the time, even around the house. My general activity level had decreased -- I'm looking forward being able to increase it and feel better all around.
My first post is directly above this one.
Today is Wednesday, January 18, and I'm one week and one day out from surgery on my left foot. My plan had been to avoid any significant driving for two weeks, but on Sunday night I had to drive someone to an ER about fifteen miles away. My car is a manual, so I had to manage the clutch. There wasn't much pain while driving, though I could tell my foot was having to work harder than it's used to.
Since then I've had more pain off and on, but nothing serious enough to need painkillers. There's been more tingling and achiness, along with some swelling, but I've still been able to go to work and to walk to other offices in my building with the surgical boot.
I've been icing each evening, and it's been working well. There's more tenderness and electrical jolts in the morning in the front of my foot even when heel walking, and though I'm moving slowly, I'm still getting around fine.
My follow up appointment is in one week, and I'm hopeful I'll be able to wear normal shoes at least part of the day by then.
THIS IS THE STORY AND GLORY OF MY LIFE HOW I WAS CURED FROM 6 YEARS DISEASE CALLED ABDOMINAL SWOLLEN, MY NAME IS WILSON ROWLAND FROM UNITED KINGDOM. ONCE AGAIN A BIG THANKS TO DR LEWISHILL WHO GOD SENT TO CURE OUR DISEASE. I SPEND ALOT OF MONEY TRYING TO CURE THIS VIRUS IN THE HOSPITAL AND MEETING THE WRONG PEOPLE FOR CURE. WELL MONEY WAS NEVER THE PROBLEM, BUT MY MIND WAS NEVER AT REST WHEN I DISCOVER THAT AM LIVING WITH THIS VIRUS, WITH MY ENTIRE FAMILY, MY LOVELY WIFE AND MY THREE KIDS, BUT AM GLAD TODAY THAT WE ARE FREE FROM THIS DISEASE. LET ME TELL YOU A LITTLE STORY, HOW I MEET DR LEWISHILL AND HOW HE DO HIS WORK. A FRIEND OF MY WHO WAS SUFFERING FROM ABDOMINAL PAIN AND ABDOMINAL CRAMPS DIRECTED ME TO HIM AND I WAS REALLY READY TO GIVE HIM A TRY, TO GOD HOW MADE IT EVERYTHING WORK OUT PERFECTLY. LEWISHILL WILL NEVER ASK FOR MONEY BEFORE SENDING YOU HIS HERBAL CURE BUT ONCE YOU ARE CURED YOU PAY HIM BACK HIS MONEY, HE IS A GENEROUS MAN AND CAN ALSO SUPPORT YOU FINANCIALLY WHEN YOU DON’T HAVE ENOUGH MONEY FOR THE CURE. IF WE HAVE TWO OF HIS KIND IN THIS HOLE WORLD MANY PEOPLE THAT BELIEVE HIS WORK AND TO GIVE IT A TRY WILL BE FREE FROM THIS VIRUS. HE NEVER TOLD ME TO ADVERTISE HIS WORK BUT AM JUST DOING IT BECAUSE I KNOW HOW IT HUNT TO HAVE THIS DISEASE, THAT WHY AM DROPPING HIS EMAIL ADDRESS SHOULD IN-CASE YOU NEED HIS HELP. drlewishill247@gmail.com THANKS FOR YOUR LOVE AND CARE YOU ARE LIKE A FATHER TO ME.
My first two posts are above the all-caps comment directly before this one.
Today is January 30, and I'm three weeks out from surgery on my left foot. Stitches came out a week ago today, so no more surgical boot. The incision is smaller than I expected -- about 3/4 of an inch extending from the base of my third toe.
I was able to wear regular shoes right away after the stitches were taken out, though I've stuck to my widest, flattest shoes with the hardest soles for the past week.
My toes are still bruised, but I'm back to two-footed driving (manual transmission) and spent most of last week at work. I rented an automatic transmission for about five days after having stitches removed to allow for more healing, and had no trouble at all getting around.
There's still some soreness and a few small twinges along nerve paths, but overall the improvement has been dramatic. I can walk barefooted again without the painful knot at at the sole. My foot feels more relaxed, and though there's numbness from the nerve removal, it's not uncomfortable and I'm adapting to it quickly. There's some minor swelling in the morning when I wake up, but it dissipates quickly as I get up and start moving around.
Life's back to normal now. In the next couple of weeks I should be able to start wearing different kinds of shoes, and plan on getting back on a treadmill once that happens.
The surgeon said it'll take months to be completely healed, and up to a year to find out how much feeling will return. However, even if things didn't improve any more than they are right now, I'd still be happy with the results.
My feet are very narrow and I'm in my late fifties, so I expected a lot more trauma in finding and removing that nerve. Instead, the surgery has greatly -- and quickly -- improved my quality of life.
I wish I'd done this a lot sooner : )
I'm a female. I felt Morton's neuroma developing for about 15 years, my primary care phys didn't know what it was. I have always walked for fitness, I continued to walk and wore expensive shoes, like Brooks glycerin. I was retired and walking daily, and the pain kept getting worse. Finally I stopped, went to a podiatrist, he x-rayed and manipulated my feet, and diagnosed Morton's neuroma in both feet between the 4 and fifth toe. He said he could do the injection, I said to wait. I rested for weeks, no improvement. I noticed that going barefoot in the house was pain free. I read up all over the internet, saw the running bare and everything else on MN. I believe that your body can heal itself if you help it. I went barefoot for a couple years, inside. Purchased many many shoes. The shoes that feel the best are Alegria. I also do yoga daily and stretch my hamstrings, and manipulate my toes around trying to "free up the compressed nerve". It is feeling really good right now. I'm going to a gym, using the exercise bike and the treadmill too. I'm finally recovering. I think the zero drop shoes are a great idea. Zero drop means that you will not be leaning forward putting more weight on your toes. Alegria casual soes have a near zero drop and platform sole, like walking barefoot, and the bottom of the shoe rolls you forward. I'm feeling really great about my improvement. It took a long time for the inflammation to go away, and the nerve has probably gotten smaller. I'm thinking of buying an Altra shoe or maybe a Hoka one with a lot of cushioning. I spent $300 on custom made orthotics from the podiatrist. I didn't like them, they lock your spring, like one of the online barefoot running doctors says. I realize that working people cannot go barefoot. But I really needed a Wide shoe, I didn't realize that the shoes were pushing my toes in too much. If I put on a traditional running shoe, the toe pushes my toes together and I feel it coming on. I need wide shoes and an round toe box. I'm not fat, I just have wide feet. I purchased a pair of men's athletic shoes, they have a wider footbed, not many women's shoes come in wide, and if they do they are ugly. I'm looking for attractive men's shoes that don't look like men's. I got Addidas just for everyday use. Now I need the a man's running shoe. I hope this helps you. You sometimes have to cure yourself, I don't trust surgery and was also afraid of the cryo, since you might end up worse, I figured I just give my feet some help to cure themselves, and it worked. Hope this helps you. MN can wreck your active life, what can you do with pain when you walk?....not much. JL
Hello. It's 2017 so a long time since this thread was active, but as I've sat here in the UK feeling hugely relieved to have found it and having got much solace I wondered if there were any others out there that fancied a bit of online camaraderie? I am 8 days post op. Anyone out there?
My daughter and I are supposed to go to Europe about 8 weeks after my surgery. Should I postpone the trip, or maybe the surgery? I have to be able to walk while I'm there!
Hi.
Brook Shepard here in Brooklyn.
After 1+ year of slowly worsening pain and shots that didn't work and many second (and third, and fourth, etc...) opinions, I had the surgery at Lennox Hill Hospital in Manhattan.
The surgery was on Friday February 17th. Today marks week #3 since the surgery.
I stayed off my feet, on a couch aside from walking upstairs at night and downstairs in the morning, for 12 days. After 1.5 ish weeks I went back to work.
My usual commute is a bus to a subway, and then walking four blocks. Since the surgery though I've been taking a cab when I can.
So how do I feel? Well the every-third-step-feels-like-shards-of-glass from the Neuroma is gone. I do feel an ever-decreasing gold ball though. It gets smaller every day, and easier to walk every day, but it does hurt and I do limp. I am a little worried - I mean, maybe I shouldn't because I don't have any real numbness or shooting pains, but of course I worry about stump neuroma.
I see the Dr. for the second time next Wednesday the 15th and will update then, if for nothing else than keeping a record for myself.
Hi there ... I'm 5 weeks post op ... I'm walking in ugg boots slowly but surely ... Its painful both top & under foot ... I have 2 huge loop stitches one on the foot and one between the toes ... Its stinging soo bad ... Should I get these removed ? They are supossed to be dissolvable !!!
Hi there ... I'm 5 weeks post op ... I'm walking in ugg boots slowly but surely ... Its painful both top & under foot ... I have 2 huge loop stitches one on the foot and one between the toes ... Its stinging soo bad ... Should I get these removed ? They are supossed to be dissolvable !!!
Hi there ... I'm 5 weeks post op ... I'm walking in ugg boots slowly but surely ... Its painful both top & under foot ... I have 2 huge loop stitches one on the foot and one between the toes ... Its stinging soo bad ... Should I get these removed ? They are supossed to be dissolvable !!!
Hi everyone,
I am 3 weeks post MN surgery and was doing quite well up until 4 days ago when I started feeling this pebble in my foot (at the bottom of the ball of the foot). It seems really big and it hurts when I walk. Has anyone had this experience and what did you do about it? I am getting nervous that I am not progressing normally. My toes are still completely swollen and won't bend at all (but at least that does not hurt).
I'm one week out of surgery and wanted to thank you for your blog. Everyone's comments helped me have realistic expectations about my recovery. Although it's been frustrating and boring to be lying around with "my toes above my nose" it has meant that I haven't had too much pain and hopefully have sped up my recovery.
My husband had to go out of town on Day 4 of my being at home and if I hadn't read this blog I would have stayed at home thinking I could manage on my own. I went to a friend's place and have spent most of the time sleeping and having great company when I'm awake and someone to get me food. I don't know how I would have managed without this help. By Day 6 I was only taking T3's in the am and before bed, with Extra Strength Tylenol during the day every 3 1/2 hours. I'm seeing the dr next week on Day 12 for removal of stitches and hoping I'll be able to start trying to put weight on it. The big thing for me was getting my hair washed - my friend wheeled me in a wheelchair to a nearby hairdresser who washed and dried my hair and I felt like a new person. Having support and distractions and clean hair are wonderful for recovery. Thanks for everyone's insights. BJ
All of this information is great. I see my foot doc later today. My sister had surgery on both feet, but about 5 years apart. Apparently this could be genetic. I've been complaining about foot pain now for about 3 years and just kept getting, it's probably just the arthritis. I did have some defective toe nails and the cortisone shots seemed to help, but there was still pain. Even though both of my feet hurt, my left is the worst. My primary doc had an x-ray done on the left and is pretty sure I have a neuroma between the 2nd/3rd toes. I asked him for a referral for both, but he refused. I'm hoping the foot doc will go ahead and check the right one, too. I have read about alcohol injections in the nerve, but you have manage it with continuous injections. I just want it fixed. I have plenty of other conditions that I have to manage and don't want another one to deal with. Apparently my sister's surgeries were successful and if it is in fact a good solution, I'm all for it. I'm hoping I won't have to wait too long for a surgery date. It would be nice to have some time to relax around the holidays, which are just around the corner. Thanks for the information on this site. It's been good for me to read before I see the doc, later today.
Brook in Brooklyn here.
February 19th, 2018. Exactly 368 days post-op on my left foot. I am pain free, except there's a distinct "click" between the toes where the incision was sometimes. It tends to be more present in the AM and to resolve itself by the end of the day. I can jog - not like I used to, but still - ski, lift weights and walk the dog pain free; still, the clicking worries me.
One of the many podiatrists I've visited says it's a stump neuroma, and again - i'm not in pain, just worried about the clicking maybe one day developing into a recurrence.
Thanks everyone.
I just had the surgery today. I have been putting up with a neuroma for five years. I have done the PT, gave up cute shoes, bought pads, spacers, special lifts, etc. I am 45. I used to be a runner. It killed my running. Four weeks ago I saw a new doctor. I told him that I am not going to be a pin cushion for the steroid shots or alcohol solution. I wanted it out. I’m the only Assistant Principal in a huge school (110 staff and 860 students) and log between 3-6 miles daily. He didn’t hesitate and said, let’s schedule surgery.
The lesson, do not wait! I waited so long that the neuroma had gotten big. This is what the doc explained to hubby. I took three days in front of a spring break and hope 10 days is enough... I moved around about 20 minutes today and it made me sick. Headache and nausea. I’m down now and learned my lesson.
To those considering... it will NEVER GO AWAY. Don’t wait like I did.
Best of luck to all... Angelia
Ps— the post above is from Angelia is 3-14-2018
Hi Everyone,
I had my neuroma surgery about 2.5 months ago (in the third interspace on the left foot) after suffering for 3-4 years. It's still slightly swollen and there feels like a big lump on the bottom where the nerve was removed whenever I walk on it. I don't know if that is just normal swelling or scar tissue but it's definitely lumpy/ swollen. Unfortunately, I am still getting dull/ achy pains in the foot almost as bad as before the surgery to the point where I can only walk 5-10 minutes at a time. Is this normal 2.5 month post surgery? It's driving me nuts.
Thanks!
I needed new travel Orthotic sneakers and a pair of comfortable dress shoes for a trip we are taking this summer. Orthofeet was recommended by my Physio Therapist. The website is easy to navigate and the ordering process was simple. The delivery took a little longer than I expected because I am in Canada. I did have to pay customs fees as well. But the shoes are great! They fit true to size and they are beautiful and VERY comfortable. Very happy with my purchase.
https://www.orthofeet.com/collections/diabetic-shoes
Have purchased two pair of orthofeet for myself, and they do help tremendously with my PF(plantar Fasciitis). My wife was complaining about her PF, so I suggested getting her a pair of plantar Fasciitis. She didn't want to spend $130 on a pair of orthofeet shoes, but I did it anyway. Now she wears them every day in the garden! Holding up pretty well for the abuse they get too! She won't admit it, but I think she really likes the Quantum's and they do help with the PF.
Hi,I just had my third surgery between both my feet. My doctor cut the ligaments. Were your nerves cut?
AUG 2018, about 7 months post surgery. Every time I tap on the bottom of my feet I get an electric shock or zap type feeling in the nerve. It's painful if I perform any repetitive movement of the foot like using a stationary bike or swimming. Anybody have this post surgical problem?
Hello,
My name is Steve and I'm 4 days out of having both feet operated on at the same time.
Reading all of the stories on here has great .
I'm 43 and I've had this pinched nerve pain for well over 2 full decades.
I've just learned to live and suffer with it. The sharp shooting pains, the burning, the restless, sleepless nights, all of it.
I've had insoles made, tried the shots and differing medications over the last 7 or so years.
I almost got the surgery in 2013 but my wife decided to leave me and move in with an abusive man and break up our family. I was on her
insurance since recently putting her through college.
I'm 4 days out of surgery now. I've been behaving and staying in bed as much as humanly possible.
Luckily I have a couple of plastic hospital urinals left over from a severly busted ankle and 2 fractured vertebrae in October 2004.
I shattered the right Tibia and Fibia, putting a bone through a leather cowboy boot. Motorcycle accident. I hit some gravel.
2 plates and 15 screws in right ankle.
The urinals keep bathroom trips to a minimum. Which really helps.
Pain honestly hasn't been any worse than the pain I've suffered with over half my life.
I'm sure I have a higher than normal pain tolerance from all of it.
I still do East Coast Swing dancing and I've studied Aikido since 1992. And I skateboarder most my life and I lift at the gym pretty regularly. All things hard on feet. Besides regular life.
It's either deal with the pain and d attempt to have a life or become lazy and do nothing.
Oh, I am 43, 5' 10" and 198 lbs and pretty solid. Not quite a six pack but not far from it.
They have given me hydrocodone which I can definitely get by without.
I've been taking half a pill a couple times a day.
After about 25 years of pain it's just been nice to not hurt, you know?
They've had me on Gabapentin and Naproxin for a few years.
I have titratedthe doses down to the least I can take and still get by.
I hate having to take stuff. It all has side effects. All of it. Either short term or long term or both.
Hoping to get completely off the Gabapentin by Christmas and switch from Naproxin to something over-the-counter shortly afterward.
I go back to have bandages, and I'm assuming stitches, removed on Sept 12th which will be 13 days after surgery I think.
No idea what the game plan will be after that. I guess they'll tell me.
I appreciate everything everyone here has taken the time to write.
I wish I would have found this before surgery but I'd still have had the operation.
I'll ask my doctor about the post surgery massage stuff.
Thanks for everything.
Steve Rice
United States
Ft. Smith, Arkansas
Just found this blog. I am 2.5 weeks on from MN surgery and had my stitches on the top side removed today. All seems to go well if you do exactly as they say in terms of resting etc. Footwear is tricky but my tip is to by shoes from Skechers. They do memory foam inner soles and a ballet style shoe with diagonal straps that attach with Velcro. VERY comfortable and will be ok with trousers for work.
10/23/2018 I love that people are still updating this post with their results. I am 11 days post surgery. Went to the doctor yesterday and she wanted to leave the stitches in a bit longer, but gave me the go ahead to get rid of the 'shoe'. I was able to get back into my New Balance tennis shoes, just had to loosen the laces. Walking is much better in real shoes and not the 'shoe'. I do have lots of tingling and zinging, but I can put weight on it. I took Norco for about two days after the surgery and then a couple more nights. Since then I have been taking ibuprofen when needed and it seems to do the job. I have to say that I am so happy with the recovery, I was prepared for a lot worse. One thing that was a lifesaver was the Vive Leg Cast Cover. It allowed me to take a shower the first day. It fits really snug and never had a problem with moisture. Thanks to everyone for all of this information.
Hi Everyone,
I have been scheduled for surgery next week. I am struggling with the decision to go through with it. My pain is def annoying. My neuroma pain is NOT debilitating. It slows me down. It bothers me when I play tennis and go for my hikes. If I rest, it seems to go away for a bit and then when I become active, it becomes sore again. I walk without a limp and can get by without surgery but I don't want to modify my active lifestyle. I am 43. If my neuroma hurt as much as most of you, having surgery would be a no brainer. I hate to have surgery when really my neuroma is terrible. But maybe if I stick with modifying and resting, it will continue getting worse each year and I will kick myself for not just getting the darn surgery done. thanks, Kerry
Get it done! I am 6 years out and it gave me my life back !! It takes a few months to be better like any surgery- but next year at this time you will be happy it’s gone!
Thank you Avery!
Have the surgery. It's been two months since my surgery and I just realized that I no longer think about my foot all the time. Is it completely pain free? No, the scar area is still tender, but I can walk normally and don't even notice it anymore.
So, like tons of other posts, I'll start by saying "thanks" for this blog. Its by far most helpful info on the web. I'm 3 1/2 weeks post op. I had 2 neuromas removed on same foot. I had 2 neuromas in right foot and one in left. I had cortizone injections and 10 plus alcohol injections which relieved perhaps 20 % of pain. My post op foot still sore and some swelling. Trying to be optimistic about recovery. I still can't walk on foot but can put some weight on it... maybe 30% or so. Nike slides were only footwear I got any relief from as I tried to power thru the pain. I can't imagine doing 2 feet at same time. Tough enough to get around after surgery on one foot.
Would love to hear from some of you who had 2 neuromas removed at once ( on same foot). Also, will be ordering some crocs soon. Seems most everyone has benefitted from these.
Best wishes to all of you dealing with MN. Thanks for all the stories
Jim
Im 17 days post op- it's getting better!!
Don't be terrified, this is to Help you ❤ just elevate constantly and use ice 20 min every hour you are awake.
Wishing you best be patient - you don't need to consult others (its making you More anxious) because You will have your own experience. Better to research relaxation and breathing techniques ... Funny movies etc
XO
Get it over with! Im post op 17 days... I am so glad I had it fixed!
Awwww hugs ! Fellow recoverer!!
I've had a lot of anxiety about surgery for Morton's neurons that's been limiting my life for over 2 years now. This has helped ease my mind. I wanted to a relatistc story to be honest with me. You mentioned ugly ass crocs and I knew you were a guy I could trust. Thank you for sharing and helping so many people find some ease before their surgery.
I have read several comments, but not all. They have been very helpful. I'm having the surgery this coming Wednesday, 2/13. My concern is that I will be flying to Cincinnati on 2/21 (from Tampa) to watch my grandchildren for a week. I will be driving them to and from school beginning 2/24. Is this feasible?? Of course, I expect to be in pain, even though I have a high pain threshold from years of fibromyalgia and several neck & back surgeries. Should I postpone surgery, or do you all think I'll be able to drive if I keep my foot up the majority of the rest of my time there?
hi. I'm so happy I found this blog so thanks to chris and all the other people that have kept the thread going. I am 18 days post surgery. I still have my stitches in as she said it hadn't healed enough. my main problem is this marble feeling in the sole of my foot. I'm so upset about it feeling the opp hasn't worked and as much as I try to be patient its hard. I have a job where I'm on my feet all the time so feel I may be off for quite some time but has anybody had the marble feeling and its now gone away... just want to have some hope. x
Hi, im a 44 year old female 13 weeks post bi-lateral surgery for 2 neuromas (one on each feet). At this stage im back playing netball and about to start playing soccer again. For my second post op consult my surgeon told me that the pain on the ball of my feet i.e. under where the cut was made, seems to be general feedback for the 8 week mark. He also said that from then on the pain should very very gradually disappear, however so slowly you probably wont even notice it. Whilst i still have pain walking bare feet on hard floors, my surgeon advised that I cannot cause my feet any more damage, so if i can handle the discomfort then im fine to exercise. Hope that helps.
hi unknown.Thanks for you comment. Im so happy to hear that at 13 weeks on you are back to playing sports. I feel a lot more positive than my last post as its now 4 weeks on. this marble is still there but not as prominent and does ease with massaging. I was told that by 12 weeks I should know more or less if its worked or not as that's when the swelling should have all gone down. I also had 2 taken out of 1 foot so im thinking this is why my recovery is slightly longer. im hoping by 8-12 weeks I can post a positive update.
I am post 1 year after surgery and still having pain, occasional swelling, a lump feeling, and slight buzzing feeling. The pain is better than before the surgery but still cannot resume running or walking for very long. I am planning to go to center for mortons neuroma in framingham mass to get the cryoablation procedure. I have basically run out of all options. Steroid injections and alcohol injections don't seem to be working.
I have a neuroma... not very big but unpredictably painful. This has been going on for 8 years. I've seen different specialists... and two of them agree that it's Morton's neuroma and suggest that I have it removed.
I am still hesitating a lot, after reading all these comments and realizing that my pain is easily manageable with ice/cold water, and I can resume my daily activities after a good night sleep. I also noticed that losing weight has helped me a lot.
What is really annoying is that the pain usually arrives when I am stressed, nervous and when I stand up for a long time. I never know when it will happen. It can even start in the middle of the night (I think because of the way I sleep, with my right leg sometimes over my left one).
I am a woman, and will soon celebrate my 70th birthday. I exercise 3 times a day and have started yoga. My question is : since my pain doesn't occur more than once or twice a month (maybe more often when I stand up for a long period of time), is it better to keep on like this than take the risk of the surgery?
I trust many of you more than the specialists... who seem to choose surgery too quickly and easily.
I do hope someone can and accepts to answer me
Thank you!
Chris, Thank you for sharing your journey. I'm only 2days post surgery and the pain is intense, burning ,feeling like my foot is in a vice��
Is the burning a side effect you experienced.?
The surgeon had to go in the top & bottom of foot said it was wrapped around like a grapevine.
I'm very nervous as I am a outdoors girl.
Reading your experience has comforted my worries and hope my journey is comparable to yours.
Thank you
~Kathie
My email is
Peekkathie1@gmail.com
I HAD AN ACCIDENT LAST MAY PIANO BENCH SMASHED MY FOOT AND EVER SINCE THEM I HAVE HAD PAIN THAT JUST DO NOT QUIT, NOW NEUROMA. AGAIN I AM IN AN ORTHO BOOT. 5 WEEKS IF I AM NOT ANY BETTER WE GO FOR SURGERY. I AM DOING PT RIGHT NOW. OH THE BENCH ITS BURNING NICELY IN SOMEONE'S FIRE PLACE. I HAVE DONE 2 SHOTS IN THE FOOT BOY THE PAIN HYDROCODONE YES IT HELPS MORE THAN ASPIRIN. BIOFREEZE, ICE, WARM BATH, STRETCHING ETC. RECOVERY IS 1-2 MONTHS IT DOES NOT HELP THAT I ALREADY HAVE CHRONIC PAIN AND I AM DISABLED. DRUNK DRIVER 2004. I AM USING MEDITATION, GARDENING, ART THERAPY TO SWITCH MY BRAIN AWAY FROM THE PAIN, I HAVE A GOOD DOCTOR AND SURGEON. ITS GOING TO BE JUST FINE.
I am one week post op from my Morton’s Neurectomy and Bunionectomy. I am very pleased so far but have to go to my follow up tomorrow and I am terrified! Mostly of when he takes the soft cast off of what I’m going to see. My only advice to anyone who will be having this surgery is please please please take your pain medication even if that silly nerve block has you so numb you’re dragging your foot around. You will not believe the intensity of pain once that sucker wears off.
It's 12/1/19 - not sure how long it's been since anyone has posted.
I had decompression surgery for two neuromas in my right foot 10+ weeks ago. My doctor said I would know within 4 - 6 weeks if it made a difference and I am still feeling the same pain although he also said it can take up to a year for all of the internal swelling to disappear. The scar looks good and I am back at the gym using the elliptical but still not allowed to spin which I would prefer. I have surgery scheduled for Dec. 19 to remove both of them. My insurance deductible starts over January 1, so if I wait until next year for surgery I would have to pay $3,500.
I am not in pain all of the time (as long as I wear my shearling lined Berkenstock clogs) but I am quite active and I'm limited in what I can do. I'm an avid road cyclist so I ride 100 - 150 miles/week in season (April - November usually). I'm fairly certain I got the neuromas from my bike shoes (narrow toe box, clipped in to pedals). I bought new bike shoes with a wider toe box and use metatarsal pads which help a little but I still get pain after about 20 miles and I'm only part way through my ride at that point. I also do week-long hiking trips and got a prednisone prescription for my last trip which I would prefer not to have to do!
What would you do? Have surgery in December? Wait until later in 2020 to see if they feel any better in a few months? (would have to pay another $3,500 for insurance OOP max). Please send any/all opinions my way!
Linda, my recommendation is to get the surgery. Morton's Neuroma *will not* go away on its own.
I am 6 weeks out from surgery. I have been averaging about 5,000 steps a day. Yesterday I did 8,000 and now I am in so much pain and I am getting shooting pains I have not had before. My doctor told me last week to increase my activity, but slowly. I hope this is normal.
Linda I agree with Brook. Know it is a long recovery process. I highly recommend taking off 2 weeks after surgery. I am 6 weeks out from surgery. I am allowed to walk in treadmill, bike, I just have to be careful not to get too many steps in. If I do my foot Yells at me. I highly recommend getting the surgery. It will only get worse if you don't. I waited a long time before I did surgery. When I first noticed pain I could run 20 minutes before my foot went numb and before surgery it was 7 minutes and my foot went numb. Good luck
I am 4 1/2 weeks post op. At the end of the day my foot sells swells and hurts. I am unable to put full weight in it yet. I walk on the outside of my foot when I'm not wearing boot. I get pain in the ball of foot and it feels like I'm walking on a huge ball. Is this normal? I got my staples out at little over 3 weeks post op. I thought by now I'd feel much better.
Hi there. It appears I need to break my comment down into 2 parts because of blogspots parameters, so please see my response for the continuation. I am writing this as of August 4th 2020. I just wanted to say this blog has been very helpful and re-assuring as I've been dealing with and subsequently recovering from Morton's Neuroma Surgery. I am 12 weeks out from my surgery at this point. I am not writing this to scare anyone, as I am currently going through this and the outcome could go any direction at this point.
I just wanted to emphasize everything Chris said about massaging the scar tissue is right. It is something you must stay on top of and something I wish my Doctor had emphasized more. And you simply should avoid doing any sort of major physical activity in the first few months, even if you feel up to it, because the subsequent setback will not be worth it.
I had Morton's Neuroma surgery on both my left and right feet. I had a neuroma in both the 3rd and 4th metatarsals on both feet. The surgery itself is a breeze, it's the subsequent recovery that is pretty tough. Thanks to Covid-19, it resulted in my wife working from home and being able to be there for me when I needed her during my recovery. If you do both feet, you simply must have someone helping you. The mere act of putting your foot down caused my feet to pulsate unpleasantly. If you can arrange someone to help you day to day in the first couple weeks, do so. Also, if you have access to any sort of motorized scooter, or can rent one, do it. It's so worth it and makes getting up to go to the bathroom so much easier.
So my recovery from the surgery itself was quite lengthy. I didn't feel fully healed until after about 8 weeks or so in which case it was still pretty difficult and uncomfortable to walk and put full pressure down. At my Podiatrist's urging, he said you just have to push through and walk through the pain because of all that scar tissue buildup sticking together. Sure enough after a couple days of really pushing through I felt a tremendous amount of relief. And after a few days I was off to the races, I started using my stationary bike again, going for lengthier walks with my dog etc. I felt great. It wasn't until I took a long beach walk in my sandals that I started to feel that similar burning feeling and irritation in the ball of my left foot. At this point, I was a solid mile and a half from my vehicle and so I just had to push through. Over the next few days of resting my foot, that crazy pulsating, cramping, nerve blasts and burning pain started occurring again. It is as if my Neuroma is back... Only this time the centralized pain is coming from a bit lower in the ball of my foot where the severed nerve would be.
In chatting with my Podiatrist, he said that from the sound of it, the beach walk inflamed the scar tissue and then subsequently irritated the nerve trunk. So what now? Icing 2 times a day and massaging up and down the incision with lotion for up to 5 minutes 3 times a day. When I massage the foot, I definitely feel a connection to the irritated nerve and it brings me some relief but not fully.
So what now? Well if the nerve doesn't settle down in the next week and a half I'll need to schedule an ultrasound guided steroid injection into the darn thing and hopefully that settles it down.
I was really hoping for this all to be over, but I clearly overdid it in my excitedness of feeling well again. My Podiatrist probably should have warned against stationary bike riding and beach walking, but I also didn't expect to have felt so good, so soon. My word of caution, go easy on yourself, even if you feel 100%. My Podiatrist told me that when I start to feel good again, I need to go weeks of feeling good before I do any sort of heavy physical activity. He also said walking on the sand is hard on the ball of your feet, because of the "Torsion" the sand does to the ball of the foot when pressing off.
I'll update you all on how things go. I hate to add any sort of negativity to the mix... But I think it's important people know that they shouldn't push themselves too hard and too fast the moment they start to feel better. AND... MASSAGE the SCAR TISSUE and stay on top of it the moment you get the stitches out. I did it, but I didn't do it as diligently as I needed to be doing it. It's a major part of the physical therapy post-surgery that I wish was stressed to me more. My Doctor says what I am experiencing is very uncommon and rare, so that doesn't feel too good to be the anomaly... But I would still play it safe as you recover. Hopefully I'll have good news to report back soon!
Did the pain at the bottom of your foot go away? I am getting the same pain and I am pretty worried the surgery didnt work.
It turns out after several trial and error that it is clear that I have another Neuroma in between my 2nd and third toe and that is why (presumably) the injections weren't all that successful AND why my foot exploded on me at the beach. It is very hard after the surgery to be able to feel through the "noise" and after a couple months I've finally been able to really pinpoint where the pain is coming from and the doctor has been able to replicate the pain when pressing in. So now begins the entire process over again.
My word of advice is for people to make sure that the rest of their foot is free of any other neuroma's if possible because it clearly is possible to have more than 1 neuroma in a single foot at a time.
Pretty disappointed but not much else to do but trudge onwards.
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I am five years post surgery and it has been the worst medical decision of my life. I should have tried alcohol injections first, since they are much less intrusive. I can't tell if it's just my body's reaction or had a bad surgeon (I think its the latter). Been seeing a specialist who is great, but nothing is working. can't run and probably can't run for the rest of my life. Post surgery I remember I could feel my nerve move like a live wire. What a terrible terrible decision.
Hi. I just read your comment and so far your experience is most similar to mine. I’m in my 4th week post op and nothing can touch two of my toes they’re so sensitive. I wish they were numb!! Walking is hard as I get a ripping feeling in my foot. I’ve been feeling down and discouraged and am worried that something is wrong as it seems like my experience is different than others I read. I hope your foot is doing better since you wrote your comment! I’m not sure how long ago that was.
If you're in the east bay check out mission peak orthopedic where they can do radiofrequency ablation. it helped after my botched surgery but still not great. Great doctors though. Do not go to the morton's neuroma center in or near boston. Its a scam.
Did you pain feel like a burning? And what about the pain on the bottom the pad?
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