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Warning-sign checks

Morton neuroma: when to get help

Go through these in order and stop at the first one that applies. If you are reading this for someone else, answer for them.

  1. 1

    Is any of this happening now?

    Call 911

    Seek emergency care if the foot or toes suddenly become pale, blue, or cold, or if you develop severe pain with loss of feeling or movement.

    These signs may indicate a problem with blood flow or a serious injury rather than Morton neuroma.

    And for anyone, someone who:

    • has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
    Other emergency signs, for anyone
    • Someone who is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
    • Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
    • Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
    • Someone who is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
    • Someone who has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
    • Someone who has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
    • Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
  2. 2

    Is any of this happening?

    Be seen today

    Get prompt medical advice if you cannot put weight on the foot, especially after an injury.

    A fracture or another injury may need to be ruled out.

    Seek urgent assessment if this occurs, particularly if you also have a fever, a wound, or feel unwell.

    And for anyone, someone who:

    • has a new severe headache unlike any they have had before
  3. 3

    Does any of this apply?

    Book an appointment

    Arrange a routine appointment if forefoot pain lasts for more than a short period, keeps returning, or is interfering with walking, work, sleep, or exercise.

    You should also seek assessment if numbness is persistent, spreading, or affecting more than two nearby toes.

The article also says

A red, hot, rapidly swelling foot is not typical of Morton neuroma.

If you have diabetes, reduced circulation, or reduced feeling in your feet, seek help earlier for new pain, swelling, blisters, or skin damage.

Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Morton neuroma. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.