Morton’s neuroma refers to a swollen nerve in the ball of the foot. The small lump is benign but very irritating. Pain usually occurs at the ball of the foot, normally between the base of the third and fourth toes. The exact cause for Morton’s neuroma is still not known, but wearing high heel is closely related. Ultrasound is usually prescribed for diagnosis. Surgery is an option, but it may result in numbness in the affected toes afterward, so many doctors recommended to try other conservative treatment first.

Plantar fascia is a thick band at the bottom of the foot connecting toes to the heel. It forms the arch of the foot and works as shock absorber. It gets flared up mainly due to excessive walking or long-time standing. Pain at the heel typically occurs in the morning, relieved by movement, but gradually comes back as day progresses.

In real practice, the combination of two in one patient is very common. Patients usually complaint about the pain at the ball of the foot. Physical check revealed severe tenderness at the arch of the foot. I usually use acupuncture to relieve the tension on the plantar fascia. Interestingly, the pain at the ball area subsided simultaneously when the tenderness at the arch was relieved, possibly due to reduced pressure on the foot bottom.

Pls feel free to make an appointment for acupuncture or you can contact our acupuncturist Richard (0433921838) directly to discuss your condition.