Morton's Neuroma
Do you have pain in your fore foot? Morton's Neuroma is a thickening or enlargement of the tissue surrounding an interdigital nerve between the toes.
Morton's Neuroma
Morton neuroma is a damaged, enlarged nerve that causes pain on the bottom of the forefoot, usually in the area behind the third and fourth toes. The pain is usually sharp or burning. There may be pain, tingling or numbness spreading into these toes.
The exact cause of Morton neuroma is not known, but it's likely related to pressure on the nerve. High-heeled or narrow shoes may worsen the symptoms of Morton neuroma.
Many people get relief by wearing shoes with low heels and wide toe boxes and by using shoe inserts. Treatments also may include corticosteroid injections or surgery.
Morton neuroma also is called interdigital neuroma.
Symptoms
Morton neuroma causes pain in the ball of your foot. The ball is the padded area of the bottom of the foot between the toes and arch. Usually, the pain is in the area behind and between the third and fourth toes.
The pain is often described as:
Stabbing, shooting or burning pain in the ball of the foot.
Feeling as if walking on a marble or stone.
Pain that increases with activity.
Pain, a pins and needles feeling, tingling, or numbness in the two nearby toes.
Pain when stretching toes.
A clicking sensation in the forefoot.
Pain is often relieved with rest or removing shoes.
Treatments
Treatment for Morton's neuroma (a thickening of the tissue surrounding an interdigital nerve in the foot, most commonly between the third and fourth toes) follows a step-by-step approach. Most people improve without surgery.
Non-Surgical (Conservative) Treatments
Footwear Changes:
Switch to shoes with wide toe boxes and low heels to stop squeezing the toes and pinching the nerve. Avoid high heels and tight shoes.
Padding & Orthotics:
Place a metatarsal pad or dome just behind the ball of the foot to lift and spread the metatarsal bones, taking pressure off the nerve. Custom orthotics can be fitted by a specialist for tailored support.
Activity Modification:
Rest the foot by reducing high-impact activities like running, jumping, or prolonged standing.
Ice and Massage:
Roll a frozen water bottle or apply ice packs to the ball of the foot to ease localized inflammation. Use light to medium pressure when rolling your foot on a frozen water bottle.
Medications:
Over-the-counter NSAIDs (like ibuprofen or naproxen) help manage acute pain and swelling. In some cases, neuropathic medications (such as tricyclic antidepressants or duloxetine) are prescribed for nerve-related burning.
Injections:
A corticosteroid injection can reduce swelling and pain around the nerve.