Morton's Neuroma

What is Morton's neuroma?

Morton's neuroma is irritation and thickening around a nerve in the ball of the foot, most often between the third and fourth toes. It is not a true tumor. Symptoms may begin only in certain shoes and become more frequent over time.

Common symptoms

• Burning pain in the ball of the foot
• Tingling or numbness into the toes
• A feeling that a pebble is in the shoe
• Pain that improves after removing the shoe or massaging the foot

Joint inflammation, a stress injury, a plantar plate problem, and other nerve conditions can cause similar forefoot pain.

Why it happens

Narrow toe boxes, high heels, repetitive forefoot stress, bunions, hammertoes, flat feet, and other mechanical factors can compress or irritate the nerve.

How we evaluate forefoot nerve pain

We locate the pain, check sensation and toe alignment, and examine the joints and soft tissue. X-rays may rule out bone or joint causes. Ultrasound or MRI may be considered when the diagnosis is uncertain.

Treatment options

Many people improve without surgery. Treatment options may include:

• Shoes with a wider toe area
• Metatarsal padding or custom orthotics
• Activity changes
• Medication when appropriate
• A guided injection for selected cases
• Surgery when persistent nerve pain does not respond to nonsurgical care

The earlier the pressure pattern is addressed, the easier symptoms may be to manage.

When to schedule an appointment

Schedule an appointment if burning or numbness keeps returning, affects normal shoes, or limits walking.

Frequently asked questions

Is a neuroma cancer?

No. Morton's neuroma describes irritated and thickened tissue around a nerve, not a cancerous growth.

Why does taking off my shoe help?

Removing a tight shoe reduces pressure across the ball of the foot and may temporarily calm the irritated nerve.

Will I need surgery?

Not necessarily. Shoe changes, padding, orthotics, and other nonsurgical options often come first.

How to prepare for your appointment

Bring the shoes that cause the most trouble and any inserts or braces you use. Be ready to describe which activities are limited and whether the shape or pain has changed over time.

Related care

You may also want to explore custom orthotics, foot deformities, and ball of foot pain.

Foot and ankle care close to home

Signature Foot and Ankle provides personalized care at our Boynton Beach and Loxahatchee offices. Call 561 203 9285 or request an appointment online.