Morton's Neuroma

Morton's Neuroma Podiatrist

A neuroma is an enlargement of nerve tissue that can develop in different parts of the body. The most common type in the foot is a Morton’s neuroma, often located between the third and fourth toes. This condition can also be referred to as an intermetatarsal neuroma, due to its positioning in the ball of the foot between the metatarsal bones. Neuromas can appear in other areas of the foot as well.


If you’re experiencing pain between your toes while walking, tingling, or a sensation of a foreign object in your shoe, you might have Morton’s neuroma. Learn more about this condition’s symtpoms, and the available treatment options at Pinnacle Podiatry.

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Morton's Neuroma Treatment

Initial care for Mortons Neuroma treatment typically includes the following options:


  1. Firstly, consider changing your footwear. Avoid wearing high heels and tight, narrow shoes. Opt for shoes with a wider toe box, lower heels, and a soft sole. This can help reduce pressure on the affected nerve and allow it time to heal.
  2. Secondly, orthotic devices like custom shoe inserts or metatarsal pads can be helpful. These inserts can help alleviate irritation by redistributing pressure on the forefoot and separating the bones, thus reducing pressure on the neuroma.
  3. Alternative therapies such as shockwave therapy and radiofrequency ablation might also be considered, although their effectiveness is still being studied.


Studies have shown that a combination of shoe modifications, orthotic devices, anti-inflammatory medications like ibuprofen or naproxen, and corticosteroid injections can provide long-lasting relief for many individuals.

Morton's Neuroma Symptoms

If you're experiencing Morton's neuroma, you might have these symptoms:

  • Feeling like there's a pebble in your shoe
  • A burning sensation in the ball of your foot that might move into your toes, especially during activities like walking or running
  • Tingling or numbness in your toes
  • Increased pain with high heels or being on the balls of your feet

Dealing with Morton's neuroma can be quite painful, especially when it affects the ball of your foot between the third and fourth toes. It may feel like you have a pebble or a wrinkle in your sock irritating your foot.


As the condition worsens, you might notice more significant pain that doesn't go away easily. It's essential to take care of your feet and seek treatment at Pinnacle Podiatry to manage your symptoms effectively.

FAQS

Here are answers to some common questions about Mortons Neuroma. 

  • What is Morton’s Neuroma?

    Morton’s Neuroma occurs when the tissue around one of your toe nerves thickens, causing a sharp, burning pain in the ball of your foot. You might also experience a burning sensation, stinging, or numbness in the toes that are affected.

  • How to treat Morton’s Neuroma?

    If you start experiencing any foot pain or discomfort, it's a good idea to schedule a visit with a Pinnacle Podiatry right away. Ignoring symptoms of conditions like neuromas can make things worse. During your visit, one of our expert podiatrists will ask about your medical history and give you a physical exam to assess your condition. They may also perform tests in the clinic to diagnose Morton's neuroma, and sometimes they might recommend an ultrasound for further evaluation. From this evaluation, we will recommend treatments, such as:

    1. Changing your footwear. 
    2. Investing in orthotic devices like custom shoe inserts or metatarsal pads. 
    3. Alternative therapies such as shockwave therapy and radiofrequency ablation.

  • What causes Morton’s Neuroma?

    Morton’s neuroma is caused by compression and irritation of the nerve, leading to its enlargement and the development of symptoms. While this condition is benign, it can escalate, causing more severe pain and discomfort. It is predominant in women and typically found in the 2nd or 3rd interspaces of the foot.

    Wearing high-heeled or tight shoes is often linked to developing Morton's neuroma. Switching to lower heels with wider toe boxes can provide relief for many individuals. In some cases, corticosteroid injections or surgery may be necessary.