From the Guidelines
Morton's neuroma treatment typically involves a combination of conservative management and medication.
Medication Options
While there isn't a specific "pill" that directly targets Morton's neuroma, medications such as gabapentin (300-600 mg, 3 times a day) or pregabalin (75-150 mg, 2 times a day) can help alleviate nerve pain 1.
- Gabapentin and pregabalin are anticonvulsants that have shown efficacy in treating neuropathic pain, including conditions like Morton's neuroma.
- Duloxetine, a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor, has also been studied for its potential in managing neuropathic pain, although its use in Morton's neuroma is less established 1.
Additional Treatment Considerations
Additionally, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen (400-800 mg, every 8 hours) or naproxen (250-500 mg, every 8-12 hours) can help reduce inflammation and pain. It's essential to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and personalized treatment, as they may recommend other interventions such as physical therapy, orthotics, or injections. In some cases, topical treatments like capsaicin or compounded gels containing ingredients like baclofen, amitriptyline, and ketamine may be considered, although their efficacy and safety for Morton's neuroma specifically may vary 1.
From the Research
Treatment Options for Morton's Neuroma
- Medications and injections are used to treat Morton's neuroma, including corticosteroids, sclerosing solutions, and other substances 2
- Corticosteroid injections have been shown to be effective in alleviating symptoms in 90% of patients 3
- Other infiltrative treatments, such as capsaicin, alcohol, and hyaluronic acid injections, have also been reported to be effective in reducing pain related to Morton's neuroma 2
Conservative Management
- Conservative measures, including orthotics and anti-inflammatory medication, are usually the first line of treatment for Morton's neuroma 4, 5
- However, these measures often have limited efficacy, and minimally invasive ultrasound-guided procedures may be employed as second-line treatments 4
Efficacy of Treatments
- Studies have shown that infiltrative treatments, such as corticosteroid injections, can significantly reduce pain and improve symptoms in patients with Morton's neuroma 3, 2
- Operative treatment has also been shown to have better outcomes in some studies, but more research is needed to confirm these results 6