Why is Dr. McClanahan the only one on the entire internet/RUclips that explains why you are getting the problem in the first place and explains the underlining problems simplistically. My physical therapist did not explain the the reason for the problem and why the therapy would heal the condition. I have found this therapy essential to not only help ease the discomfort but also contribute to curing the problem. Thanks you, Dr. McClanahan
there are many still learning that there are alternative treatment options - you can find on our website many published articles and journals of others who have been working and researching a more natural approach
It’s a shame that such invaluable advice is often discovered too late- when we already suffer the consequences of decades of ill-fitting footwear. Thank you for the information !
I completely understand, we aim to share as much information as possible to avoid the consequences! We are always here as a resource if you need us. Thank you!
I have received more and better info about my foot pain than I ever have from any of my podiatrists in the last 10+ yrs. Thanks for all the valuable info !!
I have had Morton's neuroma for 4 years. I finally had surgery on my left foot. I thought I had exhausted all conservative options. I had never heard of the toe extensor stretch. I had been experiencing foot cramps and discomfort at night with the weight of a blanket on the top of my foot. I have only been doing the extensor stretch a week, but gained relief immediately. I wish I had this imformation sooner. My hope is that this information can be shared with other podiatrists to help their patients. So often cortisone and shoe wear is the suggested means to manage pain. Thank you for your detailed explanation. I has given me hope to improve my condition.
Hello Patricia, did the operation help you get rid of the pain? I had surgery 6 months ago and I feel even worse now. Feeling pretty desperate, I am having pain in my foot for the last 3 years
I've had Morton's Neuroma going on 4 years. Tried the cortisone shots. Which did nothing, Experimented with lots of different shoes and pads and supports. At this point I've been wearing Birkenstocks exclusively for 2 years, and started taking turmeric, 1,000mg, day and night for about 4 - 5 months now. The pain is pretty much gone. I only notice after getting in bed. My foot still feels swollen but not any pain. And not every day does it feel swollen. I've started trying other shoes for short periods, but the Birks really do feel best for me. I'm hoping I continue to improve, and pretty happy about where I am at the moment. I do recommend the turmeric.
Hello turmeric may have many health benefits but reducing pain from or inflammation of the neuroma isn't one. Your shoe change helped im sure but you really need to rehab the mechanics of how your leg (calf) muscles work and affect and can worsen the foot muscles on the bottom of your foot which lead to the neuroma. This is a great video. The key is rehab
Wow just wow. Thank you so much for educating me on why my foot/feet have been having issues! I didn’t understand the metatarsal pad reasoning. Now I do. Didn’t get why flat shoes are a critical step to healing my recent tingling/numb toe area. Bless you doctor and your work!
So helpful, my foot is in that short toe extensor position at rest! I recently had what I believe is MN flareup after I bought 'arch support' sneakers I wore for 3 very long walks. Now I can barely walk and I'm used to miles of walking! Its so frustrating that a shoe ruined my feet.
I can't thank you enough I have had nearly 20 years of no diagnosis only parasthisis from some sort of nerve damage possibly somewhere in my back hips ??? You described exactly my symptoms though now it is going up my leg. When I suggested morons nobody took any notice I have seen neurologist said I may have MS!! Many osteopaths chiropractors tried to balance & correct . I have researched over the years & now I have found this 20 years !! Thank you finally I can believe in my barefoot shoes & understand the foot with your great descriptions thank you
Thank you so much for this kind message, Mandy! We are delighted to hear that our resources have helped, and wish you continued relief in your recovery!
Powerstep insoles were recommenced by my podiatrist and have solved most of my Morton’s neuroma problem. That coupled with buying only wide shoes. And for exercise I’ve found Altra shoes that have a low-rise heel have allowed me to run without pain.
Is altra shoes good shoes for people with morton's neuroma? Before this video I was looking a my second morton's neuroma foot surgery. Right foot 20 yrs ago, now left foot.
Local knife-happy podiatrist wanted to start cutting right away. I balked, and found Dr. Ray's wonderful information instead. When I wear my Correcttoes, my foot numbness is gone. I've switched to completely flat, wide-toed shoes, and wear toe socks along with the Correctoes appliance. Doing the stretches. As long as I remember to do these things, few problems, but if I slack off, then the problems return. Well, gotta go do my PT foot stretches.
Excellent video. The only pair of shoes I have that aren't flat, minimalist shoes is a cheap pair of Teva sandals I wear around the house. I noticed pain and numbness in the ball of my left foot since I started wearing the Tevas. Ugh, should've stuck with no shoes at all and I would've likely been better off!
Thank you Dr MCCLANAHAN for this awesome, in depth video of Morton’s neuroma. I’m a competitive long distance runner that hasn’t been able to run in 5 years due to one in my left foot. Unfortunately I found you to late. I had it surgically removed 13 weeks ago and now it’s even worse than before. Been a total nightmare. I sure would in courage anyone with a neuroma to do all your telling us to do before even considering surgery. Unfortunately to late for me
Same here, got the operation 6 months ago and I feel worse now, still looking to fix this huge problem with no luck so far. Did you find another solution?
Thanks for your explanation on what shoes to wear. I did not use tapered toes prior to having neuroma, but afterwards I did purchase highly cushioned running shoes with tapered toes and while initially the cushioning provided relief, a day later i felt more sensitivity at the bottom of my foot.
Wow, another great video.... I have three neuromas in my right foot and two in my left. Visited TWO different podiatrists and BOTH gave me cortisone shots which did not work. Neither doctor EVER recommended that I switch shoes. It wasn't until I began watching Dr. Ray's videos and used his suggestions of switching to FLAT footwear did my neuromas finally stop hurting me !!!!! yes... after years of neuroma pain.. you mean all it took was switching shoes!! that's right. I switched and I haven't had neuroma pain since.. However, because it took so long to discover that it was my shoes that were posing the damage, I do have some scar tissue (I can feel it) however.. I believe had I not switched shoes, it would have been much worse. so thank you Dr Ray for educating us... your suggestions are simple.. why the heck aren't all podiatrists telling their clients about these simple solutions... Thanks Dr Ray.
+Susan Lucchesi What is flat footwear? Is this a woman thing due to high heels? I have Neuroma in right foot for a month now and it is developing in left also, I will be changing footwear immedialy. is it best not to walk now?
+Stan lk Hi Stan.. Actually, many men get Neuromas too... and they aren't just always caused by high heels, as Dr. Ray will note on his website, even a sneaker that narrows at the toe and forces the toe inward can cause a neuroma.. In my case, I didn't wear heels very often if at all, I did however wear hard bound leather shoes for aerobics, which tapered at the toe and didn't allow for my toes to splay.. this , coupled with mashing my foot down during aerobics, eventually caused Neuromas and sesamoiditis.. and then I went on to have Plantar's Faciitis.. If you check out Dr. McClanahan's website, it has GREAT info on Neuromas and what HE considers good footwear.. I have watched ALL his videos and read all the articles (under foot problems) and once I began to do what he suggests on the website... my foot pain began to go away.. because I caught the neuromas late, I now have scar tissue, so those will always be a problem. however, NOT nearly what they were since I now wear shoes they allow my toes to spread out.. I am no doctor... but Dr Ray is.. and I think if you read his website, you can definitely gain from his knowledge.. I have never even visited his office, it's just through reading his articles that I found by chance, that I can now say, I have about 90 percent less foot pain than every more. this without MEDICATION.. most other doctors want to give you shots.. don't got for it.. not just yet.. first see what info you can glean from Dr. McClanahan's website. he's located in portland, oregon.. the northwest foot and ankle clinic, if you type that in, the site should come up.. good luck!!!
+Susan Lucchesi I was diagnosed two days ago with MN on left foot between third and fourth toes. I believe I got it from wearing socks with Dansko clogs that were worn out and so the arch support usually great in Danskos had flattened out. Nothing gradual, just woke up a week ago with pain. My orthopedist (I avoid podiatrists like the plague) prescribed a metatarsal bar on the bottom of my shoe (external on the sole) and said he's been prescribing this treatment for MN for 30 years. He also advised against surgery and warned that injections should be approached only after ALL other conservative measures have failed. Needless to say, this guy is very conservative in his treatment, which I appreciate. I took my shoe to a shoe repair place where they will attach the metatarsal bar to the sole and I'm picking it up Monday after the holiday. It will be a thin bar because this is not for a leg length discrepancy but instead is for I believe changing the point of pressure on the foot during the gait cycle so that you are flexing off away from the point of the neuroma, thereby relieving pressure on the neuroma. It essentially acts as a stiff sole shoe, sort of like how the postop fracture shoes work. If this is not the correct physiology feel free to correct me, essentially the bar relieves forefoot pain. If it works in the old Dansko, I plan to have one put on a NEW pair of brown Danskos and my other shoes as well. The bar itself is very thin so it won't look orthopedic. :) You can see metatarsal bars on shoes on Google images. They can put them on almost any type of shoe, even running shoes. However, I'm intrigued by Dr. McClanahan's suggestions and I definitely will begin the toe extensor stretches and visit his website. I'm freaked because neuroma damage is permanent with the scar tissue :( but this is my first and only one and I want to be proactive in caring for it and alleviating my pain without surgery and hopefully without injections. Have heard horror stories about both. I also want to check out the recommended flat shoes. I'm a huge fan of Danskos and they have great arch support (I've been wearing a different pair of Danskos for the past two days, they are my barely used black pair, and I have not had ANY pain in my left foot and I believe it's due to the high arch in the shoe that has not flattened yet--this is my black pair, I had the pain with my brown pair. :) My orthopedist is not really a fan of internal metatarsal pads, he says they don't cover enough area to really protect the neuroma area but the external metatarsal bar because it spans across the sole deals with the entire foot. I have enormous pain walking barefoot so when I'm at home I wear a postop shoe (stiff sole) to alleviate the neuroma pain. I kept my fracture shoe from a toe fracture I had three years ago, glad I saved it!
+Molly Stalinista Hi Molly, yes, definitely check out Dr. McClanahan's website. Also, check out all his videos on youtube under correct toes. He explains everything so thoroughly... I USED to wear Danskos, but no longer do, because I didn't like how my foot would eventually mold them.. meaning, my right foot kinda pronated outward on the right, so eventually my shoe did that.. What I discovered with a FLAT shoe, one that has very little height or any at all, is that my foot didn't pronate as much and too, since my foot was closer to the ground, this gave more stability. Also, that which I also learned from all of Dr. Ray's videos is that we have THREE arches.. Often, we just consider the one on the middle of our foot, but in fact, you have one at the toes and the heel.. For me, having worn shoes with a high arch support only held that arch in place but NEVER helped to strengthen the other two arches... hence, when I originally switched to flat shoes, my feet hurt.. but now, since all three arches are stronger, my feet don't hurt like that once did.. IF you read on, Dr. Ray mentions more than just having a flat shoe, it's VERY important to have shoes that allow your toes to splay... especially for people like us who have neuromas... kinda picture how you might spread your fingers apart, this is what our toes want to do.. they want space in between each toe.. I might add that for me, I can't wear the Injingi Socks, which some do recommend.. because I have the neuromas, any socks that pull my toes apart, even if just a little, is too much pressure and causes me pain. However, I think for many, those socks do wonders. You have to find what works for you.. In my case, I didn't just read Dr. Ray's website for neuromas, I read the part of choosing shoes, in fact, I read all the various articles .. I think we are so fortunate to have a doctor of his caliber posting all that free material.... It's funny, I found his website on a whim.. I was so desperate to get rid of foot pain and having searched and searched the net, I came across someone's blog who was going to follow Dr. Ray's advice. I thought ok, let me check out the website and see IF I can get some help too.. why not, I had nothing to lose.. sure enough, BAM........ I watched one video and then another and thought, WHY the heck didn't my podiatrists tell me all this info??????? anyway.... thank goodness for Dr. Ray... you re gonna LOVE his articles and youtube videos.. I wish you all the best..
Thank you for this. I've been struggling to find any advice online that doesn't start with immobilising the foot and end with surgery. This videos made me feel a lot better about the situation!
Thank you so much for this very informative video. As a therapist I do get clients in with neuroma, but this is the first video I've seen that is explained so extremely well.
I feel so much better after watching your video, I have had this pain for 2 years now. I had a scan last month after being on the waiting list for almost a YEAR! (I live in the UK, free healthcare). Ultrasound scan confirmed a 7mm neuroma between 3rd/4th metatarsal. I am a keen football player and have not ran since October, it is very hard knowing that I won't be playing again anytime soon but I am determined to fix this nerve pain. Have to be positive!! Thank you for giving me the motivation :)
Hi guys thank you for your concern! So it turned out that my problem was not Mortons Neuroma. I saw a doctor who specialises in foot and ankle, he has operated on several premier league players. He took scans and discovered that I had a ruptured ankle ligament (never knew about) and that my first metatarsal joint was abnormally long making my big toe jam when forced back. This caused the pain and inflammation (medical term is Hallux Rigidus). The solution? To saw part of the bone to increase mobility. I did not want go through surgery - so instead I have worked hard through physiotherapy (at a local clinic) to gain mobility back in my big toe. I use a theraband for strength, stretch my toes and ultrasound therapy every now and then. My foot is still painful, but I have learnt to manage the pain. I still haven't had the confidence to play football, but one step at a time! :) xxx
Super great video!! Thanks a lot. I have this problem for more than 2 years, trying RFA, IR laser, PRP, And this video clears most my questions. You are the greatest doctor!!
Oh god. My primary just said it would go away. It's between my big toe and the next one. Both toes are completely numb. Have I caused irreparable damage?
In all honesty I have been advised for over 20 years not to wear flat shoes. I bought a pair of barefoot trainers as my Morton's was getting beyond painful to the point where I couldn't differentiate where the point of pain was and my legs had decided to disown me. I still put my arch supports in them and although my metatarsal are still painful I can walk in these trainers better than anything I have tried. No more ordinary trainers for me.
I live in Orlando Florida and wish there were doctors trained to treat feet like you. It's impossible to find proper care. i wear correct toes, toe socks, and finding wide shoes in stores so I can be fitted is a challenge. I wish someone would open a shoe store that sold only the wide toe box shoes recommended to wear with correct toes..
Man I bet a lot of folks have a combination of foot problems, I have plantar fascia and pad depletion problems.Thank you for your professionalism, I wonder how long it will take the rest of the rest of this type of health care will learn then treat this?
It’s taken me a while to find your channel. I’ve searched with keywords toe,foot, barefoot, exercises, stretches, dexterity, therapy a bunch and I am only now finding this. I’m going to dive in.
this is one of the best videos here that describes what I am going through. And even more-so, the cause and treatment. I started having this sensation a few years ago when I started a very serious exercise walking regimen to get healthy. I walk average 35 miles/week. At first, this sensation lasted maybe a few minutes.. and would disappear for months. It has gotten worse the past few weeks. It is absolutely between the 3rd and 4th toe of my left foot. Feels just like when your "funny bone" on your elbow gets tweaked. I feel that on every step. I have been using Newton Running shoes. They have lugs, promote faster times, promote more of a toe strike, etc... but put pressure on the metatarsals. However they do fit properly. Many runners world-wide use these shoes. I also have used Altra which are the opposite. Zero Drop. Bigger toe box. I just started on a new pair of Newtons and that is when the pain started kicking in more than usual. Funny thing, after a mile or so the pain practically disappears. And the next day, it kicks back in. I just ordered a sole insert from Powerstep for Met support. And switching back to the Altras. What toe expander do you recommend? I put a "make-shift" pad between my 3rd and 4th toe tonight and it immediately felt some better. I do plan on continuing to walk. Want to do what is proper so I can stay active in a "foot healthy" manner!
Hi Chuck, first and foremost- thanks for your support! We are glad that the message resonated with you regarding the cause and treatment of neuromas. We highly recommend Altras as a naturally-shaped footwear option, great choice there! We find that they grant the feet the space that they require with the roomy toe box and prevent squeezing and compressing the already irritated nerve. Conventional running shoes generally taper in the toe box (squeezing the toes) and feature elevated heels- two things that really aggravate the forefoot and the nerve in particular! As far as toe expanders go, Dr. McClanahan invented Correct Toes to help increase volume and space between the toes. Spreading the toes with the use of Correct Toes encourages spreading and space around each intermetatarsal nerve. Decreasing pressure on intermetatarsal nerves offloads nerve compression and irritation. Additionally, the natural position of toes helps optimize circulation in the foot tissues. You can find more information on our website, linked here: www.correcttoes.com/foot-help/about-correct-toes/ Hope this helps! Please reach out with any other questions. Have a great day!
How do you know what the proper alignment is for a metatarsal pad? I have a neuroma I’ve been treating for over a year. I still do not think,I have the pad in the proper placement.
Great film, well explained, one question, when you talk about extenting toes down, how do you do this exersise, is it simply a question of holding your ow toes in this position each day? Thank you though, has given me hope that a cure is around the corner.
Thanks for checking it out. Definitely focus on repetition-- holding your toes in the proper position and doing the exercise each day will be a great tool for recovery! There definitely is still hope!
I have a compression issue presenting from the second toe. I have a bunion which created the problem due to bad footwear. But since following the docs advice wearing an orthotic and spreading the toes in the evening and wearing large toe box shoes, have reduced the bunion significantly and have much less pain. It’s a long process to repair years of neglect, after a long day I have pain at 2nd 3rd metatarsal, I ice it ,stretch it , golf ball under the foot massage and stretch the calf muscles. Hang in there might take a year. Also my toe stretcher was 80% less than the one advertised
Definitely avoid shoes with elevated heels and curved up toes. I have found going barefoot to be the best thing in the world for my feet. I have been living in a cold climate and wearing boots for 20 years... Within a week of freeing my feet, 90% of severe foot pain from arthritis was GONE.
Your videos have been more helpful than my doctor! I'm pretty sure I have both capsulitis and a neuroma in the same area. Two questions 1. should my shoes have a flexible sole or stiff sole (the doctor said stiff sole)? 2. can you recommend a hiking boot? I'm heading out for a 100 miles backpacking trip in 2 months.
We're so glad to hear that they have been helpful for you! In answer to your questions: it is generally best to have a flexible shoe, as it forces your foot to rely on its own musculature, and as a result helps develop your foot's strength. However, if you are accustomed to shoes that are more inflexible, you'll want to transition slowly and carefully into more flexible footwear, as moving too quickly could be damaging to your foot. For a flat, wide, and flexible hiking boot either check out a Lem's Boulder Boot ( www.lemsshoes.com/men/mens-boulder-boot/) or for a more water-proof option try the Vivobarefoot Tracker (www.vivobarefoot.com/us/mens/off-road/tracker-fg-mens?colour=Black ). The Tracker is more narrow but having a water-proof shoe could be pretty handy for a 100-mile backpacking trip!
This is much more useful information than anything my doctors have offered me! I love the natural approach to this problem. I also have Haglund's Deformity where a heal lift has saved me from surgery. But using heel life elevates my heel putting more pressure on my neuroma. So now what do I do? Also, I have been wearing flat shoes or quality running shoes most of my life. I very rarely (like once a year) have worn high heels, so neither of these issues were caused by the type of shoes I've work, which I find interesting. Any suggestions to what I should do so I can keep wearing my heel lifts to protect my Haglund's Deformity would be appreciated. Thank you!
Hi Laura, So happy to hear that you found the video helpful! Sounds like you've been doing a great job so far. It's definitely tricky to find a quality shoe that protects your heel and still is flat, wide, and flexible. Some of the best options have a nice soft heel counter to help combat pressure on the Achilles. Here are some ideas: Lems Primal 2 has a semi soft heel counter and are very flexible.. Leguano ballerinas are a super soft, sock-like material all around. Soft Star has shoes made of very fine soft leather that might work to combat tension on the Achilles. As long as you can keep the heel differential to a minimum, you should be on the right track. If you still have more questions, I would be happy to assist further by email: customerservice@correcttoes.com. Hope this helps!
Uh, yeah.... Ten years ago (a few months after a deep puncture wound to the ball of my foot), my second and third toes suddenly spread apart, and I was getting mild nerve pain up my leg. I went to a podiatrist, who diagnosed a neuroma and then wanted to remove it... along with the rest of the distal nerve! I was like, no thanks! It stopped hurting three days later and has never hurt since. Yes, my foot looks wierd, but I consider having sensation in my toes to be top priority.
Excellent explanation! Question though: Can Morton's Toe cause Neuroma? I have Morton's toe with symptoms that match perfectly of that of Neuroma. But, prior to my feet issue, for 5+ years, I'd only been wearing Vivo's, Luna's, Carson's, and Altras...when I wore shoes at all. Six months ago, after I increased my walking in prep for a backpacking trip, the pain appeared and became crippling within a week. After that, the only shoe I could wear was Crocs. Pain began in the foot with the most pronounced Morton's Toe... then suddenly moved to other foot... but to a lesser degree. The pain gradually got better but has been at a stand still for a couple months. Love to walk, but am reserved to no more than a mile...at most. Still uncomfortable to shower barefoot (I shower in Crocs). Though the pain is greatest where you describe, there is some times general discomfort in my heels as well. As a normally healthy, very active and fit individual, this has been one of the most frustrating things I've been through. Do you have any suggestions?
I used new hiking shoes for a few weeks that seemed to narrow, I exchanged them for wider shoes but I felt my feet very hot and like my socks were wrinkled, and now I feel that sensation with all shoes. But i'm ok walking barefoot. I would like to know were to get pads or toe separators. I'll do anything and wait patiently to get better.
This explanation matches exactly, what I have figured in solving my own MN pain. I have not been able to use a metatarsal treatment pad however -could it be that the wrong position or size is responsible for pain.
Very detailed and good explaination! i really appreciate this video. I had this Neuroma problem on my left foot for years. Every time i jog i felt a pain on my 4th left toe ...maybe after 5km... it starts to sore painfully.. i have to stop by the road side, take out my shoe and rub the toes.. after i resume jogging again it take only maybe less than 1km when the soreness becomes unbearable again.... I have to repeat the whole process again .. and again .. for my 10km run. After each run, my left feet will sore throughout the day and nite.... where i have to apply muscle relieving cream ...rubbing my feet.... but the sore never seems to be much lesser. The feeling is actually what is explained in this video. i tried not running for more than one year, but the soreness seems to be always there... even with simple walking... but its not as bad as if i jog/run... Thanks to this video, now at least i know what is the cause to this problem and the name of this problem - Neuroma...
Hi .. i am reply to this msg that i wrote.. i found a simple method that can quite resolve this pain... but you may not believe me .. but it works for me... pls give it a try ! .. the method is - DON'T WEAR SOCKS ... yes! it sounds strange but it works ! .. pls give it a try ! ..let me know after you have tired this simple solution ! TKS! .. pls forgive if it does not work for you.. but i think it will ! ..
@@ginasienia9622 ..hi ! ... if you are wearing old shoe... shouldn't get blisters.. but u can use plaster if u have blisters. Sorry! ... No specify kind of shoe needed.... i cannot explain why no sock helps me from this pain. But i did run without sock and found this pain did not occur to me. So i felt maybe to share here... I have no medical or scientific explanation on this ... just hope it work for others as well. Gina, maybe just give a try within a short distance if u worry about blisters and have some plasters to standby.... or even your sock to standby. But i apologise in advance if it does not work for u or anyone.
hi, I live in France can you recommend any where else other the US I can get the metatarsal pads you suggest? also do you recommend icing neuromas? thank you for your very clear information!
What is the difference bw the metatarsal gel pads that have vs dont have toe seperators and their effect on healing a Mortons Neuroma? I just bought a pair with the seperators and was wondering if its neccessary bc it does feel awkward...but im not sure if switching to non toe separation ones will have be less beneficial for a neuroma since you mentioned the constriction of the toe box
I have intense pain in both feet 24/7 Balls of feet toes and arches. Pain never goes away even when I'm trying to sleep. Podiatrist that I've seen say it's nerve pain but no cause has been determined. Stretching and strengthen exercises cause even more pain. I have 3 pair custom orthics that I can't wear because of pain. Going barefoot is impossible and shoes are barely tolerably. Any ideas? I'm really suffering. Thanks. BTW I have tried Lycria, gabapentin and cymbalta. Unable to tolerate
Georgette Boone The amount of suffering you’re going through must be just awful and lonely. Life is about movement and yours has been hindered. So sorry. I suggest watching all the videos related to this one AND READ THE COMMENTS/REPLYS as you will glean from others tried and failed efforts. Also study everything on Correct Toes website. However, I highly advise to keep to only these 2 places for foot education... otherwise it will become confusing as differing opinions abound. Many spout personal theories without research or sound scientific facts. Learning how your feet were designed to work; the nerves and purpose of design will help you on your journey to wholeness. After you have educated yourself , start small. Taking small steps toward healing helps our hope grow as battles are won/loss in the mind. Pain can be depressing and smash optimism. Even if your small efforts are imagining walking pain-free in your head...it’s a start. Watch and read the recommend exercises from Correct Toes website as well as this video’s advice repeatedly. Over and over is key to re-education. Our society has not be taught at all in this area; only told what to do/buy/wear. And worse, it’s not been for our health, but corporate profits. I know this will sound funny, but speak to your feet. Tell them to stop hurting and “do their job as God intended” I stumbled on this concept years ago. I’m the boss of my body. What I say/believe is king. So speak what you desire, NOT what you have. You have nothing to lose at this point. May you discover your answers as you seek diligently every day. Bless you!!
If the neuroma has scar tissue developing around it then how can the conservative treatments you mention (which I am going to do) eventually lead to its healing? Once the scar tissue is there wouldn't that never go away and hence you would always have an issue there?
Does anybody experience pain when they bend their toe down? I have pain when I do that and when I stand/walk and put weight on the ball under the 3rd/4th toe...I'm still trying to figure out if I have morton's neuroma or something else. I saw an orthopedist that said it might be that and I can't be seen by a podiatrist. Not sure if I should try the extensor stretch.
I've just recently had the morons neuroma surgery (4 weeks ago) and my recovery has been more difficult than I expected. I had 2 incisions in the left foot .My question is when you say flat shoes are you saying shoes without an arch, because I've been told repeatedly to make sure I have good arches in my shoes as flat feet run in the family. Also could you demonstrate a good way to massage the foot after the operation and the stitches have healed. Now that I'm trying slowly to walk on my foot I have this feeling of a lump or ball under the foot almost exactly where the nueroma was is that common ?
Thanks so much for this video! Two questions: the toe extensor stretch, does that mean plantar flexing the toes? Should it be active or passive? What sort of metatarsal pad do you recommend? Would you use this with an arch support as well? It about to be ski season again which is so brutal for my feet, any compression just does it ( years of running). I have found LEMS brand of shoes the most beneficial EVER they are totally flat with an amazingly wide toe box.
These are great questions--plantar flexion, active, and we love the Pedag metatarsal pads (www.correcttoes.com/metatarsal-pads.html ). We generally recommend transitioning away from the use of arch support if possible. Glad you've found Lems, they're excellent shoes. Thanks for checking out the video and enjoy skiing!
Great talk!! Long time Correct Toes user. What about other execises t trat ball of foot pain while doing the no heel raised wide toe box with correct toes? Do you have any suggestions for like plantar plate injuries. Thank you.
This is why I’ve never felt the “clicking” wearing “bad” converse style shoes (but frequently while wearing my Dr. Martens style boots...) Now I’ve been in pain for over a week...
I really want to know where exactly to place the metatarsal pad. Also, regarding active footwear is there a walking shoe that is recommended? Every running shoe I look at has the raised toe, and narrow point
For walking check out brands like Altra, Topo, and Anya’s reviews often provides many more brand names. Check out our guide to placing metatarsal pads- correcttoes.com/metatarsal-pads-placement/
I used to wear Jessica Simpson shoes everyday. It's a wonder I'm not crippled but I do have a neuroma that feels like it's going to cripple me. I'm determined to not be cut on because quite frankly, it doesn't look like surgery for neuroma even works. And, I worry that I'd be worse off than better. I'm trying massage and foot stretching. And no more high heels!
We carry a few of the popular brands on our site, Vivobarefoot, Altra, Lems, Xero. There are many more out there, please take a look at our Correct Toe's instagram and facebook for updated reviews and recommendations.
@@nandomorales43 its completely gone thank god. I can do everything that i did before. It took over 3 months to completely heal tho. I stopped leg workouts during this time in the gym and overall reduced the time i spent on my feet.
Thanks for this video. I am 3 month into conservative treatment and really like my correct toes. However progress is very slow. When you say the nerve is unforgiving and can take months, what is the typical range of number of months you see it takes to heal?
I was born with club foot, over my childhood even just coming home from the hospital when I was born, I already had a cast. when I began to walk, I was given orthopedic shoes. When I turned 8, I had a second surgery and because of that I have a couple of staples on the outer part of my foot. I kept on walking as normal as possible but now without orthopedic shoes. I developed hammer toes. One time I was wondering how to straighten them when I started to push the toe straight as much as I could. I wouldn't see any result until one time I go and stretch my toes and I feel and hear a pop. it felt weird but the middle toe has maintained its shape. Now I'm perplexed because no matter how much I try to straighten the last hammer toe, it is supper difficult. Should I expect to need surgical intervention? or will it just take a lot more time? Also, I was told to use extra padded heel shoe soles. But now seeing this video I wonder if I should go without one or just get a different one? my foot is about an inch shorter than my other foot, on account of the surgeries and casts that I wore for almost a year as a child. Is there anything you recommend? besides the exercises.
It's really hard to speak on behalf of specific cases. We can really only recommend our general idea of natural healthy feet. We'd truly recommend you speak with one of our doctors at NW Foot And Ankle in NW Portland, Oregon. Stretching and strengthening can always go a long way from traditional shoes but in the realm of pins, needles, surgical procedures things become more complicated.
Thanks for the helpful explanation. I have sharp pain at the ball of my right foot between third and fourth toes. I will consult orthopedics asap as I would like to get back on the dance floor. I do modern dance and need to dance bare foot/ with socks only. This pain really bothers me and it's really worrying me whether I would be able to do modern dance again. In my case, do you think I'll be able to dance barefoot again?
Hi Wong Winnie! There are too many factors at work to be able to give you a concrete answer. Correct Toes have helped many of our patients with neuromas lessen their pain. In some cases people have even been able to reverse their neuromas. In your own case, without knowing the severity of the neuroma, it would be impossible to say. Fortunately, Correct Toes do come with a 30-day no-risk return policy though, so there is no harm giving them a try!
Whats the difference between peripheral neuropathy and mortons neuroma? I am having a burning and tingling sensation on the balls of my feet and toes. My pcp sent me to a neurologist and he's sending me to a podiatrist this week as well. I want to be able to differentiate the two. I was wearing improper shoes and don't have any other primary conditions for this to be neuropathy. Im a healthy 22 yr old.
This is best description I have seen. I have been diagnosed with this but I have a strange shoe question I tried to use Altra Shoes which pretty much are suppose to be perfect for this but the 2 pair i tried really aggravate the Neuroma. I happened to throw on a pair of Solomon Shoes I had to run out quick and noticed I had no issues with the Neuroma. These shoes have a drop and are narrower but I have had relief or no aggravation. I don't get this any input or feedback would be great I really like my Altra''s but cannot wear them long as my foot starts to get painful.
Was it the Duo or Paradigm? Your shoe needs to have good support (good cushioning on the sole), esp. if you have neuroma. Only the Duo and Paradigm have decent support, of all Altras.
Correct Toes was designed to be worn while active and weight bearing, which yields the best results. Correct Toes helps to optimally align your toes, and wearing them while active allows your joints and muscles to help accommodate this process. We typically recommend starting at 30 minutes a day and increasing 30 more minutes daily, and we don't typically recommend people wear them at night.
OH DOCTOR , GOOD DOCTOR , PLEASE PLEASE FOR ME .......... HIGH ARCH AND I HAVE NEUROMA I HAD 2 INJECTIONS . THEY WORKED GOOD TOO. BUT I WOULD LOVE TO KNOW ...FOR ME FLAT SHOES ALSO ? OR THICK SOLE SNEAKERS ? WHICH SIR DO YOU RECOMMEND FOR GOING OUT TO CASUAL WALKING WEAR ......THANKING YOU .....SIGN , VERY SAD HIGH ARCH LADY , IDA GUERRA
i run / what kind of running shoes would help the foot ??i have always used a good support shoe as i roll inwards pron ate when i walk or run also im a heel strike runner i have just switched to a wider shoe
Why is Dr. McClanahan the only one on the entire internet/RUclips that explains why you are getting the problem in the first place and explains the underlining problems simplistically. My physical therapist did not explain the the reason for the problem and why the therapy would heal the condition. I have found this therapy essential to not only help ease the discomfort but also contribute to curing the problem. Thanks you, Dr. McClanahan
there are many still learning that there are alternative treatment options - you can find on our website many published articles and journals of others who have been working and researching a more natural approach
It’s a shame that such invaluable advice is often discovered too late- when we already suffer the consequences of decades of ill-fitting footwear. Thank you for the information !
I completely understand, we aim to share as much information as possible to avoid the consequences! We are always here as a resource if you need us. Thank you!
Pass on the information to the next generations.
I have received more and better info about my foot pain than I ever have from any of my podiatrists in the last 10+ yrs. Thanks for all the valuable info !!
I have had Morton's neuroma for 4 years. I finally had surgery on my left foot. I thought I had exhausted all conservative options. I had never heard of the toe extensor stretch. I had been experiencing foot cramps and discomfort at night with the weight of a blanket on the top of my foot. I have only been doing the extensor stretch a week, but gained relief immediately.
I wish I had this imformation sooner. My hope is that this information can be shared with other podiatrists to help their patients. So often cortisone and shoe wear is the suggested means to manage pain. Thank you for your detailed explanation. I has given me hope to improve my condition.
Hello Patricia, did the operation help you get rid of the pain? I had surgery 6 months ago and I feel even worse now. Feeling pretty desperate, I am having pain in my foot for the last 3 years
Did surgery help your foot at all, Patricia?
I've had Morton's Neuroma going on 4 years. Tried the cortisone shots. Which did nothing, Experimented with lots of different shoes and pads and supports. At this point I've been wearing Birkenstocks exclusively for 2 years, and started taking turmeric, 1,000mg, day and night for about 4 - 5 months now. The pain is pretty much gone. I only notice after getting in bed. My foot still feels swollen but not any pain. And not every day does it feel swollen. I've started trying other shoes for short periods, but the Birks really do feel best for me. I'm hoping I continue to improve, and pretty happy about where I am at the moment. I do recommend the turmeric.
Hello turmeric may have many health benefits but reducing pain from or inflammation of the neuroma isn't one. Your shoe change helped im sure but you really need to rehab the mechanics of how your leg (calf) muscles work and affect and can worsen the foot muscles on the bottom of your foot which lead to the neuroma. This is a great video. The key is rehab
Wow just wow. Thank you so much for educating me on why my foot/feet have been having issues!
I didn’t understand the metatarsal pad reasoning. Now I do.
Didn’t get why flat shoes are a critical step to healing my recent tingling/numb toe area.
Bless you doctor and your work!
That makes us so happy to hear! Thank you for your kind message. We wish you the best on your foot health journey!
So helpful, my foot is in that short toe extensor position at rest! I recently had what I believe is MN flareup after I bought 'arch support' sneakers I wore for 3 very long walks. Now I can barely walk and I'm used to miles of walking! Its so frustrating that a shoe ruined my feet.
This is the best explanation I've seen of a Morton's neuroma. congrats
Yes! I wondered where the pads on my instep went.
Yes
Totally agree! I've watched many other videos, and I think this one is the most informative.
I can't thank you enough I have had nearly 20 years of no diagnosis only parasthisis from some sort of nerve damage possibly somewhere in my back hips ??? You described exactly my symptoms though now it is going up my leg. When I suggested morons nobody took any notice I have seen neurologist said I may have MS!! Many osteopaths chiropractors tried to balance & correct . I have researched over the years & now I have found this 20 years !! Thank you finally I can believe in my barefoot shoes & understand the foot with your great descriptions thank you
Thank you so much for this kind message, Mandy! We are delighted to hear that our resources have helped, and wish you continued relief in your recovery!
Absolutely the most informative demonstration & explanation I've watched or been told!👍👋Thanks!!
Powerstep insoles were recommenced by my podiatrist and have solved most of my Morton’s neuroma problem. That coupled with buying only wide shoes. And for exercise I’ve found Altra shoes that have a low-rise heel have allowed me to run without pain.
Is altra shoes good shoes for people with morton's neuroma? Before this video I was looking a my second morton's neuroma foot surgery. Right foot 20 yrs ago, now left foot.
@@tommy175rdq yes, Altra shoes with a Powerstep insole have worked great for me.
@@tommy175rdqhi did your first Morton's neuroma surgery help your pain at all?
I can say as a sufferer for quite long time it’s so painful I can’t even sleep
Thank you it’s so informative
Thank you! This is the best video about the problem.
Local knife-happy podiatrist wanted to start cutting right away. I balked, and found Dr. Ray's wonderful information instead. When I wear my Correcttoes, my foot numbness is gone. I've switched to completely flat, wide-toed shoes, and wear toe socks along with the Correctoes appliance. Doing the stretches. As long as I remember to do these things, few problems, but if I slack off, then the problems return. Well, gotta go do my PT foot stretches.
Excellent video. The only pair of shoes I have that aren't flat, minimalist shoes is a cheap pair of Teva sandals I wear around the house. I noticed pain and numbness in the ball of my left foot since I started wearing the Tevas. Ugh, should've stuck with no shoes at all and I would've likely been better off!
Thank you Dr MCCLANAHAN for this awesome, in depth video of Morton’s neuroma. I’m a competitive long distance runner that hasn’t been able to run in 5 years due to one in my left foot. Unfortunately I found you to late. I had it surgically removed 13 weeks ago and now it’s even worse than before. Been a total nightmare. I sure would in courage anyone with a neuroma to do all your telling us to do before even considering surgery. Unfortunately to late for me
Try prp injections
Same here, got the operation 6 months ago and I feel worse now, still looking to fix this huge problem with no luck so far. Did you find another solution?
Thanks for your explanation on what shoes to wear. I did not use tapered toes prior to having neuroma, but afterwards I did purchase highly cushioned running shoes with tapered toes and while initially the cushioning provided relief, a day later i felt more sensitivity at the bottom of my foot.
Wow, another great video.... I have three neuromas in my right foot and two in my left. Visited TWO different podiatrists and BOTH gave me cortisone shots which did not work. Neither doctor EVER recommended that I switch shoes. It wasn't until I began watching Dr. Ray's videos and used his suggestions of switching to FLAT footwear did my neuromas finally stop hurting me !!!!! yes... after years of neuroma pain.. you mean all it took was switching shoes!! that's right. I switched and I haven't had neuroma pain since.. However, because it took so long to discover that it was my shoes that were posing the damage, I do have some scar tissue (I can feel it) however.. I believe had I not switched shoes, it would have been much worse. so thank you Dr Ray for educating us... your suggestions are simple.. why the heck aren't all podiatrists telling their clients about these simple solutions... Thanks Dr Ray.
+Susan Lucchesi What is flat footwear? Is this a woman thing due to high heels? I have Neuroma in right foot for a month now and it is developing in left also, I will be changing footwear immedialy. is it best not to walk now?
+Stan lk Hi Stan.. Actually, many men get Neuromas too... and they aren't just always caused by high heels, as Dr. Ray will note on his website, even a sneaker that narrows at the toe and forces the toe inward can cause a neuroma.. In my case, I didn't wear heels very often if at all, I did however wear hard bound leather shoes for aerobics, which tapered at the toe and didn't allow for my toes to splay.. this , coupled with mashing my foot down during aerobics, eventually caused Neuromas and sesamoiditis.. and then I went on to have Plantar's Faciitis..
If you check out Dr. McClanahan's website, it has GREAT info on Neuromas and what HE considers good footwear.. I have watched ALL his videos and read all the articles (under foot problems) and once I began to do what he suggests on the website... my foot pain began to go away.. because I caught the neuromas late, I now have scar tissue, so those will always be a problem. however, NOT nearly what they were since I now wear shoes they allow my toes to spread out.. I am no doctor... but Dr Ray is.. and I think if you read his website, you can definitely gain from his knowledge.. I have never even visited his office, it's just through reading his articles that I found by chance, that I can now say, I have about 90 percent less foot pain than every more. this without MEDICATION.. most other doctors want to give you shots.. don't got for it.. not just yet.. first see what info you can glean from Dr. McClanahan's website. he's located in portland, oregon.. the northwest foot and ankle clinic, if you type that in, the site should come up.. good luck!!!
+Susan Lucchesi Thanks, will do.
+Susan Lucchesi I was diagnosed two days ago with MN on left foot between third and fourth toes. I believe I got it from wearing socks with Dansko clogs that were worn out and so the arch support usually great in Danskos had flattened out. Nothing gradual, just woke up a week ago with pain. My orthopedist (I avoid podiatrists like the plague) prescribed a metatarsal bar on the bottom of my shoe (external on the sole) and said he's been prescribing this treatment for MN for 30 years. He also advised against surgery and warned that injections should be approached only after ALL other conservative measures have failed. Needless to say, this guy is very conservative in his treatment, which I appreciate.
I took my shoe to a shoe repair place where they will attach the metatarsal bar to the sole and I'm picking it up Monday after the holiday. It will be a thin bar because this is not for a leg length discrepancy but instead is for I believe changing the point of pressure on the foot during the gait cycle so that you are flexing off away from the point of the neuroma, thereby relieving pressure on the neuroma. It essentially acts as a stiff sole shoe, sort of like how the postop fracture shoes work. If this is not the correct physiology feel free to correct me, essentially the bar relieves forefoot pain. If it works in the old Dansko, I plan to have one put on a NEW pair of brown Danskos and my other shoes as well. The bar itself is very thin so it won't look orthopedic. :) You can see metatarsal bars on shoes on Google images. They can put them on almost any type of shoe, even running shoes.
However, I'm intrigued by Dr. McClanahan's suggestions and I definitely will begin the toe extensor stretches and visit his website. I'm freaked because neuroma damage is permanent with the scar tissue :( but this is my first and only one and I want to be proactive in caring for it and alleviating my pain without surgery and hopefully without injections. Have heard horror stories about both. I also want to check out the recommended flat shoes. I'm a huge fan of Danskos and they have great arch support (I've been wearing a different pair of Danskos for the past two days, they are my barely used black pair, and I have not had ANY pain in my left foot and I believe it's due to the high arch in the shoe that has not flattened yet--this is my black pair, I had the pain with my brown pair. :) My orthopedist is not really a fan of internal metatarsal pads, he says they don't cover enough area to really protect the neuroma area but the external metatarsal bar because it spans across the sole deals with the entire foot. I have enormous pain walking barefoot so when I'm at home I wear a postop shoe (stiff sole) to alleviate the neuroma pain. I kept my fracture shoe from a toe fracture I had three years ago, glad I saved it!
+Molly Stalinista Hi Molly, yes, definitely check out Dr. McClanahan's website. Also, check out all his videos on youtube under correct toes. He explains everything so thoroughly... I USED to wear Danskos, but no longer do, because I didn't like how my foot would eventually mold them.. meaning, my right foot kinda pronated outward on the right, so eventually my shoe did that.. What I discovered with a FLAT shoe, one that has very little height or any at all, is that my foot didn't pronate as much and too, since my foot was closer to the ground, this gave more stability. Also, that which I also learned from all of Dr. Ray's videos is that we have THREE arches.. Often, we just consider the one on the middle of our foot, but in fact, you have one at the toes and the heel.. For me, having worn shoes with a high arch support only held that arch in place but NEVER helped to strengthen the other two arches... hence, when I originally switched to flat shoes, my feet hurt.. but now, since all three arches are stronger, my feet don't hurt like that once did.. IF you read on, Dr. Ray mentions more than just having a flat shoe, it's VERY important to have shoes that allow your toes to splay... especially for people like us who have neuromas... kinda picture how you might spread your fingers apart, this is what our toes want to do.. they want space in between each toe.. I might add that for me, I can't wear the Injingi Socks, which some do recommend.. because I have the neuromas, any socks that pull my toes apart, even if just a little, is too much pressure and causes me pain. However, I think for many, those socks do wonders. You have to find what works for you.. In my case, I didn't just read Dr. Ray's website for neuromas, I read the part of choosing shoes, in fact, I read all the various articles .. I think we are so fortunate to have a doctor of his caliber posting all that free material.... It's funny, I found his website on a whim.. I was so desperate to get rid of foot pain and having searched and searched the net, I came across someone's blog who was going to follow Dr. Ray's advice. I thought ok, let me check out the website and see IF I can get some help too.. why not, I had nothing to lose.. sure enough, BAM........ I watched one video and then another and thought, WHY the heck didn't my podiatrists tell me all this info??????? anyway.... thank goodness for Dr. Ray...
you re gonna LOVE his articles and youtube videos.. I wish you all the best..
Thank you for this. I've been struggling to find any advice online that doesn't start with immobilising the foot and end with surgery. This videos made me feel a lot better about the situation!
Just started the toe stretch. My metatarsal pads come tomorrow and I'm icing my foot. Thank you for posting👋
Thank you so much for this very informative video. As a therapist I do get clients in with neuroma, but this is the first video I've seen that is explained so extremely well.
I feel so much better after watching your video, I have had this pain for 2 years now. I had a scan last month after being on the waiting list for almost a YEAR! (I live in the UK, free healthcare). Ultrasound scan confirmed a 7mm neuroma between 3rd/4th metatarsal. I am a keen football player and have not ran since October, it is very hard knowing that I won't be playing again anytime soon but I am determined to fix this nerve pain. Have to be positive!! Thank you for giving me the motivation :)
Hello. I'm also a footballer and wanted to ask did you start playing footy and if you did then how you cured your pain?
How is it going for you now?:)
Did you manage to get back playing mate?
Hi guys thank you for your concern! So it turned out that my problem was not Mortons Neuroma. I saw a doctor who specialises in foot and ankle, he has operated on several premier league players. He took scans and discovered that I had a ruptured ankle ligament (never knew about) and that my first metatarsal joint was abnormally long making my big toe jam when forced back. This caused the pain and inflammation (medical term is Hallux Rigidus). The solution? To saw part of the bone to increase mobility. I did not want go through surgery - so instead I have worked hard through physiotherapy (at a local clinic) to gain mobility back in my big toe. I use a theraband for strength, stretch my toes and ultrasound therapy every now and then. My foot is still painful, but I have learnt to manage the pain. I still haven't had the confidence to play football, but one step at a time! :) xxx
@@marleym1995 Hi mate! See my other comment for an update. Are you struggling with foot pain too?
Super great video!! Thanks a lot. I have this problem for more than 2 years, trying RFA, IR laser, PRP, And this video clears most my questions. You are the greatest doctor!!
Oh god. My primary just said it would go away. It's between my big toe and the next one. Both toes are completely numb. Have I caused irreparable damage?
Awwww thank you, I'm going to try this at home for now, I hope is not to late .Thank you 🙏❤🙋♀️
In all honesty I have been advised for over 20 years not to wear flat shoes. I bought a pair of barefoot trainers as my Morton's was getting beyond painful to the point where I couldn't differentiate where the point of pain was and my legs had decided to disown me. I still put my arch supports in them and although my metatarsal are still painful I can walk in these trainers better than anything I have tried. No more ordinary trainers for me.
I live in Orlando Florida and wish there were doctors trained to treat feet like you. It's impossible to find proper care. i wear correct toes, toe socks, and finding wide shoes in stores so I can be fitted is a challenge. I wish someone would open a shoe store that sold only the wide toe box shoes recommended to wear with correct toes..
Fantastic your explanation was head and foot above the rest ...toe separators will try them. thanks for your wisdom and kindness.
great video. learned that a lowered, flat heel is the ticket. i will look for flat wide shoes.
Man I bet a lot of folks have a combination of foot problems, I have plantar fascia and pad depletion problems.Thank you for your professionalism, I wonder how long it will take the rest of the rest of this type of health care will learn then treat this?
It’s taken me a while to find your channel. I’ve searched with keywords toe,foot, barefoot, exercises, stretches,
dexterity, therapy a bunch and I am only now finding this. I’m going to dive in.
Perfect explanation for a lay person. Doc explains why you get it.
this is one of the best videos here that describes what I am going through. And even more-so, the cause and treatment. I started having this sensation a few years ago when I started a very serious exercise walking regimen to get healthy. I walk average 35 miles/week. At first, this sensation lasted maybe a few minutes.. and would disappear for months. It has gotten worse the past few weeks. It is absolutely between the 3rd and 4th toe of my left foot. Feels just like when your "funny bone" on your elbow gets tweaked. I feel that on every step. I have been using Newton Running shoes. They have lugs, promote faster times, promote more of a toe strike, etc... but put pressure on the metatarsals. However they do fit properly. Many runners world-wide use these shoes. I also have used Altra which are the opposite. Zero Drop. Bigger toe box. I just started on a new pair of Newtons and that is when the pain started kicking in more than usual. Funny thing, after a mile or so the pain practically disappears. And the next day, it kicks back in. I just ordered a sole insert from Powerstep for Met support. And switching back to the Altras. What toe expander do you recommend? I put a "make-shift" pad between my 3rd and 4th toe tonight and it immediately felt some better. I do plan on continuing to walk. Want to do what is proper so I can stay active in a "foot healthy" manner!
Hi Chuck, first and foremost- thanks for your support! We are glad that the message resonated with you regarding the cause and treatment of neuromas. We highly recommend Altras as a naturally-shaped footwear option, great choice there! We find that they grant the feet the space that they require with the roomy toe box and prevent squeezing and compressing the already irritated nerve. Conventional running shoes generally taper in the toe box (squeezing the toes) and feature elevated heels- two things that really aggravate the forefoot and the nerve in particular!
As far as toe expanders go, Dr. McClanahan invented Correct Toes to help increase volume and space between the toes. Spreading the toes with the use of Correct Toes encourages spreading and space around each intermetatarsal nerve. Decreasing pressure on intermetatarsal nerves offloads nerve compression and irritation. Additionally, the natural position of toes helps optimize circulation in the foot tissues. You can find more information on our website, linked here: www.correcttoes.com/foot-help/about-correct-toes/
Hope this helps! Please reach out with any other questions. Have a great day!
How do you know what the proper alignment is for a metatarsal pad? I have a neuroma I’ve been treating for over a year. I still do not think,I have the pad in the proper placement.
Great film, well explained, one question, when you talk about extenting toes down, how do you do this exersise, is it simply a question of holding your ow toes in this position each day?
Thank you though, has given me hope that a cure is around the corner.
Thanks for checking it out. Definitely focus on repetition-- holding your toes in the proper position and doing the exercise each day will be a great tool for recovery! There definitely is still hope!
Nobody answers? My bilateral neuromas are between 2nd and 3rd toes, not 3rd and fourth. Also show as raised slightly on top of the foot. Anyone else?
Ladynipchick2 me, it sucks
I have a compression issue presenting from the second toe. I have a bunion which created the problem due to bad footwear. But since following the docs advice wearing an orthotic and spreading the toes in the evening and wearing large toe box shoes, have reduced the bunion significantly and have much less pain. It’s a long process to repair years of neglect, after a long day I have pain at 2nd 3rd metatarsal, I ice it ,stretch it , golf ball under the foot massage and stretch the calf muscles. Hang in there might take a year. Also my toe stretcher was 80% less than the one advertised
I have a neuroma on one foot, between second and third toes. Luckily for me, mine no longer hurts. But my foot looks wierd!
Definitely avoid shoes with elevated heels and curved up toes. I have found going barefoot to be the best thing in the world for my feet. I have been living in a cold climate and wearing boots for 20 years... Within a week of freeing my feet, 90% of severe foot pain from arthritis was GONE.
Your videos have been more helpful than my doctor! I'm pretty sure I have both capsulitis and a neuroma in the same area. Two questions 1. should my shoes have a flexible sole or stiff sole (the doctor said stiff sole)? 2. can you recommend a hiking boot? I'm heading out for a 100 miles backpacking trip in 2 months.
We're so glad to hear that they have been helpful for you! In answer to your questions: it is generally best to have a flexible shoe, as it forces your foot to rely on its own musculature, and as a result helps develop your foot's strength. However, if you are accustomed to shoes that are more inflexible, you'll want to transition slowly and carefully into more flexible footwear, as moving too quickly could be damaging to your foot. For a flat, wide, and flexible hiking boot either check out a Lem's Boulder Boot ( www.lemsshoes.com/men/mens-boulder-boot/) or for a more water-proof option try the Vivobarefoot Tracker (www.vivobarefoot.com/us/mens/off-road/tracker-fg-mens?colour=Black ). The Tracker is more narrow but having a water-proof shoe could be pretty handy for a 100-mile backpacking trip!
This was extremely helpful. Thank you.
Thank you
Really good Video! Explanatory and reassuring advice thank you :-)
This is much more useful information than anything my doctors have offered me! I love the natural approach to this problem. I also have Haglund's Deformity where a heal lift has saved me from surgery. But using heel life elevates my heel putting more pressure on my neuroma. So now what do I do? Also, I have been wearing flat shoes or quality running shoes most of my life. I very rarely (like once a year) have worn high heels, so neither of these issues were caused by the type of shoes I've work, which I find interesting. Any suggestions to what I should do so I can keep wearing my heel lifts to protect my Haglund's Deformity would be appreciated. Thank you!
Hi Laura,
So happy to hear that you found the video helpful! Sounds like you've been doing a great job so far. It's definitely tricky to find a quality shoe that protects your heel and still is flat, wide, and flexible. Some of the best options have a nice soft heel counter to help combat pressure on the Achilles. Here are some ideas:
Lems Primal 2 has a semi soft heel counter and are very flexible..
Leguano ballerinas are a super soft, sock-like material all around.
Soft Star has shoes made of very fine soft leather that might work to combat tension on the Achilles.
As long as you can keep the heel differential to a minimum, you should be on the right track. If you still have more questions, I would be happy to assist further by email: customerservice@correcttoes.com.
Hope this helps!
💓💓💓💓💓
Uh, yeah.... Ten years ago (a few months after a deep puncture wound to the ball of my foot), my second and third toes suddenly spread apart, and I was getting mild nerve pain up my leg. I went to a podiatrist, who diagnosed a neuroma and then wanted to remove it... along with the rest of the distal nerve! I was like, no thanks! It stopped hurting three days later and has never hurt since. Yes, my foot looks wierd, but I consider having sensation in my toes to be top priority.
Beautifully well explained
XERO SHOES. That's all I wear now. They help immensely!
Should I also use orthodics in flat shoe with wide toe base
Thanks
super good video. thank you.
Nice explanation, thanks. Would you please consider also making a video explaining Joplin's Neuroma and include the Superficial Perineal Nerve?
Hi, Roberto! Thanks for the feedback. We will certainly look into doing a video in the future about Joplin's neuroma. Appreciate the suggestion.
Which shoes would you suggest for morton neuroma for working out?
Excellent explanation! Question though: Can Morton's Toe cause Neuroma? I have Morton's toe with symptoms that match perfectly of that of Neuroma. But, prior to my feet issue, for 5+ years, I'd only been wearing Vivo's, Luna's, Carson's, and Altras...when I wore shoes at all.
Six months ago, after I increased my walking in prep for a backpacking trip, the pain appeared and became crippling within a week. After that, the only shoe I could wear was Crocs. Pain began in the foot with the most pronounced Morton's Toe... then suddenly moved to other foot... but to a lesser degree.
The pain gradually got better but has been at a stand still for a couple months. Love to walk, but am reserved to no more than a mile...at most. Still uncomfortable to shower barefoot (I shower in Crocs). Though the pain is greatest where you describe, there is some times general discomfort in my heels as well. As a normally healthy, very active and fit individual, this has been one of the most frustrating things I've been through. Do you have any suggestions?
I used new hiking shoes for a few weeks that seemed to narrow, I exchanged them for wider shoes but I felt my feet very hot and like my socks were wrinkled, and now I feel that sensation with all shoes. But i'm ok walking barefoot.
I would like to know were to get pads or toe separators. I'll do anything and wait patiently to get better.
what are your thoughts on Using shockwave therapy for neuroma and Bunions?
Excellent, thank you.
Is there a remedy for worse pain after Neuroma surgery? Could you please make a video to give some tips for this kind of situation? 🙏🏼
This explanation matches exactly, what I have figured in solving my own MN pain. I have not been able to use a metatarsal treatment pad however -could it be that the wrong position or size is responsible for pain.
Very detailed and good explaination! i really appreciate this video. I had this Neuroma problem on my left foot for years. Every time i jog i felt a pain on my 4th left toe ...maybe after 5km... it starts to sore painfully.. i have to stop by the road side, take out my shoe and rub the toes.. after i resume jogging again it take only maybe less than 1km when the soreness becomes unbearable again.... I have to repeat the whole process again .. and again .. for my 10km run. After each run, my left feet will sore throughout the day and nite.... where i have to apply muscle relieving cream ...rubbing my feet.... but the sore never seems to be much lesser. The feeling is actually what is explained in this video.
i tried not running for more than one year, but the soreness seems to be always there... even with simple walking... but its not as bad as if i jog/run...
Thanks to this video, now at least i know what is the cause to this problem and the name of this problem - Neuroma...
We are so happy this video was able to help! Happy Running!
Hi .. i am reply to this msg that i wrote.. i found a simple method that can quite resolve this pain... but you may not believe me .. but it works for me... pls give it a try ! .. the method is - DON'T WEAR SOCKS ... yes! it sounds strange but it works ! .. pls give it a try ! ..let me know after you have tired this simple solution ! TKS! .. pls forgive if it does not work for you.. but i think it will ! ..
Lighting Struck can you elaborate? Why no socks? What shoes do you have? It’s because I wonder if blisters are an issue with no socks.
@@ginasienia9622 ..hi ! ... if you are wearing old shoe... shouldn't get blisters.. but u can use plaster if u have blisters. Sorry! ... No specify kind of shoe needed.... i cannot explain why no sock helps me from this pain. But i did run without sock and found this pain did not occur to me. So i felt maybe to share here... I have no medical or scientific explanation on this ... just hope it work for others as well.
Gina, maybe just give a try within a short distance if u worry about blisters and have some plasters to standby.... or even your sock to standby. But i apologise in advance if it does not work for u or anyone.
Great information. Thank you
hi, I live in France can you recommend any where else other the US I can get the metatarsal pads you suggest?
also do you recommend icing neuromas?
thank you for your very clear information!
This makes sense why I have heightened sensation when I drive by hitting the gas pedal and clutch as my feet are elevated at an angle.
Thanks so much for this advise, hello from nz
Great advice
What is the difference bw the metatarsal gel pads that have vs dont have toe seperators and their effect on healing a Mortons Neuroma?
I just bought a pair with the seperators and was wondering if its neccessary bc it does feel awkward...but im not sure if switching to non toe separation ones will have be less beneficial for a neuroma since you mentioned the constriction of the toe box
I have intense pain in both feet 24/7 Balls of feet toes and arches. Pain never goes away even when I'm trying to sleep. Podiatrist that I've seen say it's nerve pain but no cause has been determined. Stretching and strengthen exercises cause even more pain. I have 3 pair custom orthics that I can't wear because of pain. Going barefoot is impossible and shoes are barely tolerably. Any ideas?
I'm really suffering. Thanks. BTW I have tried Lycria, gabapentin and cymbalta. Unable to tolerate
you woore some really bad shoes growing up
Georgette Boone The amount of suffering you’re going through must be just awful and lonely.
Life is about movement and yours has been hindered. So sorry.
I suggest watching all the videos related to this one AND READ THE COMMENTS/REPLYS as you will glean from others tried and failed efforts.
Also study everything on Correct Toes website.
However, I highly advise to keep to only these 2 places for foot education... otherwise it will become confusing as differing opinions abound.
Many spout personal theories without research or sound scientific facts.
Learning how your feet were designed to work; the nerves and purpose of design will help you on your journey to wholeness.
After you have educated yourself , start small. Taking small steps toward healing helps our hope grow as battles are won/loss in the mind.
Pain can be depressing and smash optimism. Even if your small efforts are imagining walking pain-free in your head...it’s a start.
Watch and read the recommend exercises from Correct Toes website as well as this video’s advice repeatedly. Over and over is key to re-education. Our society has not be taught at all in this area; only told what to do/buy/wear. And worse, it’s not been for our health, but corporate profits.
I know this will sound funny, but speak to your feet. Tell them to stop hurting and “do their job as God intended”
I stumbled on this concept years ago. I’m the boss of my body. What I say/believe is king. So speak what you desire, NOT what you have.
You have nothing to lose at this point.
May you discover your answers as you seek diligently every day. Bless you!!
If the neuroma has scar tissue developing around it then how can the conservative treatments you mention (which I am going to do) eventually lead to its healing? Once the scar tissue is there wouldn't that never go away and hence you would always have an issue there?
what can I google to find shoes? unfortunately, a lot of the shoes on your website aren't active. thank you so much for this video
Very informative
Does anybody experience pain when they bend their toe down? I have pain when I do that and when I stand/walk and put weight on the ball under the 3rd/4th toe...I'm still trying to figure out if I have morton's neuroma or something else. I saw an orthopedist that said it might be that and I can't be seen by a podiatrist. Not sure if I should try the extensor stretch.
Great video!
I've just recently had the morons neuroma surgery (4 weeks ago) and my recovery has been more difficult than I expected. I had 2 incisions in the left foot .My question is when you say flat shoes are you saying shoes without an arch, because I've been told repeatedly to make sure I have good arches in my shoes as flat feet run in the family. Also could you demonstrate a good way to massage the foot after the operation and the stitches have healed. Now that I'm trying slowly to walk on my foot I have this feeling of a lump or ball under the foot almost exactly where the nueroma was is that common ?
Thanks so much for this video! Two questions: the toe extensor stretch, does that mean plantar flexing the toes? Should it be active or passive? What sort of metatarsal pad do you recommend? Would you use this with an arch support as well? It about to be ski season again which is so brutal for my feet, any compression just does it ( years of running).
I have found LEMS brand of shoes the most beneficial EVER they are totally flat with an amazingly wide toe box.
These are great questions--plantar flexion, active, and we love the Pedag metatarsal pads (www.correcttoes.com/metatarsal-pads.html ). We generally recommend transitioning away from the use of arch support if possible. Glad you've found Lems, they're excellent shoes. Thanks for checking out the video and enjoy skiing!
@@correcttoes why do you recommend not using arch supports?
Great talk!! Long time Correct Toes user. What about other execises t trat ball of foot pain while doing the no heel raised wide toe box with correct toes? Do you have any suggestions for like plantar plate injuries. Thank you.
Altra Tennis shoes are the best for this issues
Altra makes great shoes!
This is why I’ve never felt the “clicking” wearing “bad” converse style shoes (but frequently while wearing my Dr. Martens style boots...) Now I’ve been in pain for over a week...
I would love to know some shoe recommendations. Very hard to find a zero drop shoe with wide toe box and no toe lift
Hi mate. I wear steel cap work boots all day. What is a gd way to try fix my morton neuroma?
I got the LEMS which was on your shoe list & tried the separators. LEMS makes my neuroma worse.
3:00 Ah Ha! Toe spring... never knew.
I have numbness in the 3rd and 4th toes....no pain.
I really want to know where exactly to place the metatarsal pad.
Also, regarding active footwear is there a walking shoe that is recommended? Every running shoe I look at has the raised toe, and narrow point
For walking check out brands like Altra, Topo, and Anya’s reviews often provides many more brand names.
Check out our guide to placing metatarsal pads- correcttoes.com/metatarsal-pads-placement/
So, it means that we could release the pain with giving something beetween those two toes in shoes??
I used to wear Jessica Simpson shoes everyday. It's a wonder I'm not crippled but I do have a neuroma that feels like it's going to cripple me. I'm determined to not be cut on because quite frankly, it doesn't look like surgery for neuroma even works. And, I worry that I'd be worse off than better. I'm trying massage and foot stretching. And no more high heels!
awesome content, thank you! I'm suffering currently with this, what brands of shoes offer these features? Flat, wide and with no toe spring?
We carry a few of the popular brands on our site, Vivobarefoot, Altra, Lems, Xero. There are many more out there, please take a look at our Correct Toe's instagram and facebook for updated reviews and recommendations.
What are the best tennis/running shoes that you recommend for Morton's?
I’ve been suffering from this since a week. I thought it’d go away on its own. Can’t even walk properly. Hopefully it gets better soon.
How ya doing now bud?
@@nandomorales43 its completely gone thank god. I can do everything that i did before. It took over 3 months to completely heal tho. I stopped leg workouts during this time in the gym and overall reduced the time i spent on my feet.
Thanks for this video. I am 3 month into conservative treatment and really like my correct toes. However progress is very slow. When you say the nerve is unforgiving and can take months, what is the typical range of number of months you see it takes to heal?
Very helpful! Thank you :)
Curious to know if the LEMS Drifter, slip on shoe can be used with the Correct Toes?
The foot you are seeing is text book perfect...lucky gal.
What if your neuroma is in your heel of your foot? Can you offer relief/treatment plan? Or video
I was born with club foot, over my childhood even just coming home from the hospital when I was born, I already had a cast. when I began to walk, I was given orthopedic shoes. When I turned 8, I had a second surgery and because of that I have a couple of staples on the outer part of my foot. I kept on walking as normal as possible but now without orthopedic shoes. I developed hammer toes. One time I was wondering how to straighten them when I started to push the toe straight as much as I could. I wouldn't see any result until one time I go and stretch my toes and I feel and hear a pop. it felt weird but the middle toe has maintained its shape. Now I'm perplexed because no matter how much I try to straighten the last hammer toe, it is supper difficult. Should I expect to need surgical intervention? or will it just take a lot more time? Also, I was told to use extra padded heel shoe soles. But now seeing this video I wonder if I should go without one or just get a different one? my foot is about an inch shorter than my other foot, on account of the surgeries and casts that I wore for almost a year as a child. Is there anything you recommend? besides the exercises.
It's really hard to speak on behalf of specific cases. We can really only recommend our general idea of natural healthy feet. We'd truly recommend you speak with one of our doctors at NW Foot And Ankle in NW Portland, Oregon. Stretching and strengthening can always go a long way from traditional shoes but in the realm of pins, needles, surgical procedures things become more complicated.
@@correcttoes Thank you for replying, hope I get to visit someday in the future.
Thanks for the helpful explanation. I have sharp pain at the ball of my right foot between third and fourth toes. I will consult orthopedics asap as I would like to get back on the dance floor. I do modern dance and need to dance bare foot/ with socks only. This pain really bothers me and it's really worrying me whether I would be able to do modern dance again. In my case, do you think I'll be able to dance barefoot again?
Hi Wong Winnie! There are too many factors at work to be able to give you a concrete answer. Correct Toes have helped many of our patients with neuromas lessen their pain. In some cases people have even been able to reverse their neuromas. In your own case, without knowing the severity of the neuroma, it would be impossible to say. Fortunately, Correct Toes do come with a 30-day no-risk return policy though, so there is no harm giving them a try!
It hurts so bad I’m ready to cut my toe off
Whats the difference between peripheral neuropathy and mortons neuroma? I am having a burning and tingling sensation on the balls of my feet and toes. My pcp sent me to a neurologist and he's sending me to a podiatrist this week as well. I want to be able to differentiate the two. I was wearing improper shoes and don't have any other primary conditions for this to be neuropathy. Im a healthy 22 yr old.
popped a good educ
This is best description I have seen. I have been diagnosed with this but I have a strange shoe question I tried to use Altra Shoes which pretty much are suppose to be perfect for this but the 2 pair i tried really aggravate the Neuroma. I happened to throw on a pair of Solomon Shoes I had to run out quick and noticed I had no issues with the Neuroma. These shoes have a drop and are narrower but I have had relief or no aggravation. I don't get this any input or feedback would be great I really like my Altra''s but cannot wear them long as my foot starts to get painful.
Was it the Duo or Paradigm? Your shoe needs to have good support (good cushioning on the sole), esp. if you have neuroma. Only the Duo and Paradigm have decent support, of all Altras.
Thank youuuuuuuuuu
How long do you wear that toe separator? Like four hours each night?
Correct Toes was designed to be worn while active and weight bearing, which yields the best results. Correct Toes helps to optimally align your toes, and wearing them while active allows your joints and muscles to help accommodate this process. We typically recommend starting at 30 minutes a day and increasing 30 more minutes daily, and we don't typically recommend people wear them at night.
@@correcttoes I have a set of Yoga Toes....is this similar to the CorrectToes?? Yet you can't wear when active.....only when lounging around.
OH DOCTOR , GOOD DOCTOR , PLEASE PLEASE FOR ME .......... HIGH ARCH AND I HAVE NEUROMA I HAD 2 INJECTIONS .
THEY WORKED GOOD TOO. BUT I WOULD LOVE TO KNOW ...FOR ME FLAT SHOES ALSO ? OR THICK SOLE SNEAKERS ?
WHICH SIR DO YOU RECOMMEND FOR GOING OUT TO CASUAL WALKING WEAR ......THANKING YOU .....SIGN , VERY SAD
HIGH ARCH LADY , IDA GUERRA
I love my correct toes!
i run / what kind of running shoes would help the foot ??i have always used a good support shoe as i roll inwards pron ate when i walk or run also im a heel strike runner i have just switched to a wider shoe