What is Morton’s Neuroma?

• Morton’s neuroma is a painful thickening of a nerve between the toes – most commonly found between the 3rd and 4th toes. It’s caused by compression and irritation of the nerve, which leads to swelling, inflammation, and sharp or burning pain in the ball of the foot.

• Although it’s called a “neuroma,” it’s not a tumour – just a benign thickening of nerve tissue due to repeated stress or pressure.

Common Symptoms

• Burning or sharp pain between the toes (especially 3rd and 4th)

• Tingling or numbness in the toes

• A feeling like you’re standing on a pebble or bunched-up sock

• Pain that worsens with tight shoes, standing, or walking

• Relief when you remove your shoes or massage the foot

• Symptoms usually come and go at first, but can become more persistent if left untreated.

What Causes Morton’s Neuroma?

• Tight or narrow footwear (especially high heels or pointy shoes)

• Repetitive stress from running, court sports, or long periods on your feet

• High arches or flat feet, which can increase pressure on the forefoot

• Biomechanical issues, such as excess pronation

• Joint instability (especially at the base of the toes)

Treatment Options

At Toe-tal Podiatry, we focus on non-surgical treatment first, with excellent outcomes in most cases.

 1. Footwear Modification

• Wear shoes with a wide toe box and low heel

• Avoid high heels, tight shoes, or stiff soles

• Look for shock-absorbing soles to reduce pressure

 2. Orthotic Devices

• Custom or prefabricated orthotics can offload the nerve and relieve pressure

• Metatarsal domes or pads may be used to lift and separate the toe bones

• Orthotics may also help correct underlying foot posture (e.g. pronation)

 3. Activity Changes

• Modify or reduce high-impact activities (running, jumping)

• Replace with low-impact exercise (e.g., swimming, cycling)

• Avoid walking barefoot on hard floors

 4. Manual Therapy

• Soft tissue release for tight foot muscles

• Joint mobilisation to reduce nerve compression

• Dry needling or massage techniques (case dependent)

 5. Icing & Anti-Inflammatory Measures

• Ice the forefoot after activity (15–20 minutes)

• Anti-inflammatory gels (like Voltaren) may help

• Oral anti-inflammatories under GP advice

 6. Padding & Strapping

• Temporary toe strapping or padding to reduce irritation during activity

Advanced Treatment Options

If conservative treatment fails after 8–12 weeks, we may explore:

• Corticosteroid injections (performed by a GP or specialist)

• Ultrasound imaging to confirm the diagnosis

• Referral to a foot and ankle surgeon for neurectomy (nerve removal) in severe, persistent cases

Surgery is usually a last resort and is considered only when symptoms significantly limit daily life and haven’t responded to other treatment.

• Prevention Tips

• Choose footwear that fits well and allows natural toe movement

• Use orthotics if advised by your podiatrist

• Stretch and strengthen your foot muscles regularly

• Avoid walking long distances in unsupportive or tight shoes

• Listen to early warning signs – don’t wait for pain to worsen

When to Book In at Toe-tal Podiatry:

If you experience:

• Tingling, burning, or numbness between your toes

• Pain in the ball of your foot that worsens with activity

• A feeling like your sock is bunched up underfoot

• Ongoing symptoms that don’t resolve with rest or footwear changes

Morton’s neuroma can be frustrating – but with the right treatment, most people get relief without surgery.

From your Team at Toe-tal Podiatry!