Morton's Neuroma

Morton’s neuroma is a painful condition caused by a thickening of the nerve tissue, most commonly found between the third and fourth toes. It can feel like something is stuck in your shoe or as if your sock is bunched up, even when it’s not. This condition is also known as an intermetatarsal neuroma, referring to its location in the ball of the foot between the metatarsal bones.

What Causes Morton’s Neuroma?

Morton’s neuroma develops when a nerve in the foot becomes irritated and compressed. Over time, the constant pressure causes the nerve to thicken and become inflamed. Common causes include:

• Wearing tight or narrow shoes that squeeze the toes

• High heels that shift weight to the ball of the foot

• Foot deformities such as bunions, hammertoes, flat feet, or flexible arches

• High-impact sports or repetitive activities like running or court sports

• Injury or trauma to the forefoot

Symptoms

If you have Morton’s neuroma, you may notice:

• Tingling, burning, or numbness in the toes

• Sharp or aching pain in the ball of the foot

• A feeling like something is stuck in your shoe

• Pain that worsens when wearing tight shoes or walking for long periods

Symptoms often start gradually. They may come and go at first but can become more persistent over time. As the nerve continues to enlarge, the pain may increase and become constant, even at rest.

Diagnosis

Your foot and ankle specialist will begin by reviewing your symptoms and performing a physical exam. Pressing on the affected area or moving the foot in certain ways may reproduce your symptoms. Imaging tests such as X-rays or an MRI may be recommended to rule out other conditions.

Early diagnosis is important. Treating Morton’s neuroma in its early stages can help you avoid more invasive treatments later on.

Non-Surgical Treatment Options

Many patients find relief with conservative treatments. These may include:

• Padding: Padding under the ball of the foot can support the arch and relieve pressure on the nerve.

• Icing: Applying ice can help reduce swelling and discomfort.

• Custom orthotics: Shoe inserts designed to support your foot structure and reduce nerve pressure.

• Footwear changes: Switching to shoes with a wide toe box and good support can make a big difference.

• Activity modification: Avoiding activities that put repetitive stress on the ball of the foot.

• Anti-inflammatory medication: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs like ibuprofen may help with pain and inflammation.

• Injections: Cortisone or local anesthetics can be injected into the area to reduce inflammation and relieve symptoms.

These options are often successful, especially when the condition is caught early.

Why Choose a Foot and Ankle Specialist?

Foot and ankle surgeons are uniquely trained to diagnose and treat conditions like Morton’s neuroma. As doctors of podiatric medicine (DPMs), they have specialized education and surgical training focused entirely on the foot and ankle. Whether you need conservative care or surgical treatment, a foot and ankle surgeon has the expertise to help you find lasting relief.