Acupuncture offers a natural, non-invasive treatment option for Morton’s neuroma, a painful condition affecting the ball of the foot.
What is Morton’s Neuroma?
Morton’s neuroma develops when the tissue around a nerve leading to your toes thickens, typically between the third and fourth toes.
How Acupuncture Helps Morton’s Neuroma
- Reduces inflammation around the affected nerve
- Improves blood circulation to the foot
- Releases natural pain-relieving endorphins
- Decreases nerve compression
Treatment Protocol
A typical acupuncture treatment plan for Morton’s neuroma involves 6-8 sessions over 4-6 weeks.
Common Acupuncture Points Used:
- Kidney 3 – Located behind the inner ankle
- Liver 3 – Between the first and second toes
- Local points – Around the affected area
What to Expect During Treatment
Each session typically lasts 30-45 minutes, with thin needles inserted at specific points in the foot, ankle, and leg.
Complementary Treatments
- Proper footwear with wide toe boxes
- Regular foot exercises
- Ice therapy
- Massage therapy
Finding a Qualified Practitioner
Look for licensed acupuncturists certified by the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM).
| Certification Body | Contact Information |
|---|---|
| NCCAOM | Phone: 904-598-1005 Website: www.nccaom.org |
Expected Results
Many patients report improvement after 3-4 sessions, though individual results may vary.
Safety Considerations
- Inform your practitioner about any medications you’re taking
- Discuss any bleeding disorders
- Report any unusual symptoms during treatment
Contact your healthcare provider if symptoms worsen or persist despite treatment.
Recovery Tips
- Avoid high-heeled shoes during treatment
- Take short breaks when standing for long periods
- Apply ice pack after physical activity
- Perform recommended stretching exercises
Long-Term Management
Beyond the initial treatment course, some patients benefit from monthly maintenance sessions to prevent recurrence.
Lifestyle Modifications:
- Weight management
- Regular foot exercises
- Proper footwear selection
- Activity modification as needed
When to Consider Other Options
If acupuncture doesn’t provide sufficient relief after 8-10 sessions, other treatment options may need to be explored.
- Cortisone injections
- Custom orthotics
- Surgical intervention
Conclusion
Acupuncture provides a viable treatment option for Morton’s neuroma, offering natural pain relief and improved function. Success depends on proper diagnosis, consistent treatment, and appropriate lifestyle modifications. While not a guaranteed cure, many patients experience significant improvement with minimal risk of side effects.
Regular communication with your healthcare provider and acupuncturist ensures optimal treatment outcomes and long-term management of symptoms.
FAQs
- Can acupuncture effectively treat Morton’s neuroma?
Yes, acupuncture can help reduce pain and inflammation associated with Morton’s neuroma by stimulating specific points that promote circulation and release natural pain-relieving endorphins in the affected area. - How many acupuncture sessions are typically needed for Morton’s neuroma?
Most patients require 6-10 sessions over a period of 4-8 weeks, with initial treatments scheduled twice weekly, then reducing frequency as symptoms improve. - Which acupuncture points are targeted for Morton’s neuroma treatment?
Treatment typically focuses on local points around the affected area of the foot, including Kidney 3, Bladder 60, and Liver 3, as well as distal points that help with pain management and inflammation. - Is acupuncture painful when treating Morton’s neuroma?
Most patients experience minimal discomfort during treatment. The needles used are very thin, and while patients might feel a slight pinch or dull ache, the procedure is generally well-tolerated. - Can acupuncture be combined with other treatments for Morton’s neuroma?
Yes, acupuncture can be safely combined with conventional treatments like orthotics, proper footwear, physical therapy, and anti-inflammatory medications. - What are the success rates of acupuncture for Morton’s neuroma?
Clinical studies show that approximately 65-80% of patients experience significant pain reduction and improved mobility after a complete course of acupuncture treatment. - Are there any side effects of acupuncture treatment for Morton’s neuroma?
Side effects are typically minimal but may include minor bruising, temporary soreness at needle sites, and occasional temporary increase in symptoms before improvement. - How long does each acupuncture session last for Morton’s neuroma?
Typical sessions last 30-45 minutes, with needles remaining in place for 20-30 minutes after insertion. - Will I need maintenance treatments after the initial course of acupuncture?
Some patients benefit from monthly maintenance sessions to prevent symptom recurrence, while others may only need occasional treatments when symptoms flare up. - How soon can I expect relief after starting acupuncture treatment?
Many patients report some improvement after 3-4 sessions, though significant and lasting relief typically occurs after completing the full recommended course of treatment.