Morton's Neuroma
What is Morton's Neuroma?
Morton's neuroma is a painful condition affecting the ball of the foot, most commonly between the third and fourth toes. It occurs when the tissue surrounding one of the nerves leading to the toes thickens, causing irritation, pain, and discomfort. Although called a "neuroma," it is not a true tumor but rather a benign nerve thickening.
Symptoms of Morton's Neuroma
People with Morton's neuroma may experience:
- A burning pain in the ball of the foot that may radiate to the toes
- A sensation of standing on a pebble or a fold in a sock
- Tingling or numbness in the affected toes
- Pain that worsens with weight-bearing activities such as walking or running
- Temporary relief when removing footwear or massaging the foot
Causes of Morton's Neuroma
Morton's neuroma develops due to repeated irritation or pressure on the nerve, leading to thickening and inflammation. Common causes include:
- Wearing tight or high-heeled shoes that compress the toes
- Repetitive foot stress from high-impact activities like running or sports
- Abnormal foot structure, such as flat feet, high arches, or bunions
Risk Factors for Morton's Neuroma
Several factors may increase the likelihood of developing Morton's neuroma, including:
- Footwear choices: High heels and narrow-toed shoes increase pressure on the foot.
- Repetitive activities: Running, dancing, or high-impact sports can lead to nerve irritation.
- Foot deformities: Conditions like bunions, hammertoes, or flat feet can alter foot mechanics, contributing to nerve compression.
- Age and gender: More common in middle-aged adults and in women due to footwear choices.
Diagnosis of Morton's Neuroma
A healthcare provider will diagnose Morton's neuroma through:
- Physical examination: Pressing on the foot to check for tenderness and a palpable lump.
- Clinical history: Discussing symptoms, footwear habits, and activity levels.
- Imaging tests: An ultrasound or MRI may be recommended if the diagnosis is unclear or to rule out other conditions such as stress fractures.
Management of Morton's Neuroma
Conservative (Non-Surgical) Management
In many cases, Morton's neuroma can be managed without surgery through:
- Footwear modifications: Wearing wide-toe box shoes with low heels and good arch support.
- Orthotics: Custom or over-the-counter insoles can reduce pressure on the affected nerve.
- Activity modification: Avoiding high-impact activities that exacerbate symptoms.
- Pain relief: Using ice therapy, anti-inflammatory medications, or corticosteroid injections to reduce swelling and discomfort.
- Physical therapy: Exercises and stretching to improve foot biomechanics and reduce nerve irritation.
Surgical Management
If conservative treatments do not provide relief, surgical intervention may be considered. Surgical options include:
- Neurectomy: Removal of the affected nerve to alleviate pain.
- Decompression surgery: Cutting nearby structures to relieve pressure on the nerve.
- Minimally invasive procedures: Some techniques use radiofrequency ablation or cryotherapy to reduce nerve pain. Recovery from surgery varies, but most patients experience significant pain relief.
Prevention of Morton's Neuroma
To reduce the risk of developing Morton's neuroma:
- Wear well-fitted, supportive footwear with a wide toe box.
- Avoid prolonged use of high heels or restrictive shoes.
- Use proper cushioning or orthotics, especially if engaging in high-impact activities.
- Strengthen foot muscles and improve flexibility through exercises and stretching.
Outlook for Morton's Neuroma
With appropriate management, most individuals experience symptom relief. Conservative treatments can be highly effective, but if symptoms persist, surgery may offer long-term relief. Early intervention improves outcomes and prevents worsening of the condition.
If you are experiencing foot pain, consult a healthcare professional for a personalized assessment and treatment plan.
Further informatiion
Last updated17 Jul 2025