Morton’s neuroma is a painful nerve condition that affects the ball of the foot, often feeling like a sharp, burning pain or a pebble stuck in your shoe. If left untreated, it can worsen over time and make walking uncomfortable. Understanding its causes, symptoms, and treatment options can help you manage this condition and find relief.
What Is Morton’s Neuroma?
Morton’s neuroma is a thickening of the tissue around the nerves leading to the toes, most commonly occurring between the third and fourth toes. This compression of the nerve can cause irritation, inflammation, and pain.
Common Symptoms:
✅ Tingling, burning, or numbness in the toes
✅ Feeling like there’s a pebble or fold in your sock
✅ Sharp pain in the ball of the foot, especially when walking
✅ Worsening pain when wearing tight or high-heeled shoes
What Causes Morton’s Neuroma?
Several factors contribute to the development of Morton’s neuroma, including:
🔹 Wearing Tight or High-Heeled Shoes – These put excessive pressure on the forefoot.
🔹 Repetitive Stress from Activities – Running, dancing, and high-impact sports can irritate the nerves.
🔹 Foot Deformities – Flat feet, high arches, bunions, or hammertoes can increase the risk.
🔹 Injury or Trauma – Direct impact or stress can lead to nerve thickening.
Best Non-Surgical Treatment Options
If diagnosed early, Morton’s neuroma can often be managed without surgery. Here are the top non-surgical treatments that may help:
1. Change Your Footwear 👟
✔ Wear shoes with a wide toe box to reduce pressure.
✔ Avoid high heels and narrow-fitting footwear.
✔ Consider shock-absorbing insoles for extra cushioning.
🔗 APMA Shoe Selection Guide
2. Use Orthotics & Padding 🦶
✔ Custom orthotic inserts help realign the foot and reduce pressure on the neuroma.
✔ Metatarsal pads can lift and offload pressure from the affected nerve.
🔗 Mayo Clinic – Morton’s Neuroma
3. Apply Ice & Take Anti-Inflammatories ❄️
✔ Apply an ice pack for 10-15 minutes to reduce swelling.
✔ Take over-the-counter NSAIDs (like ibuprofen) for pain relief.
4. Try Foot Stretches & Exercises 🏋️♂️
✔ Toe stretches and rolling a ball under the foot can help relieve pressure.
✔ Calf stretches improve overall foot mechanics and reduce irritation.
🔗 American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons – Foot Exercises
When Is Surgery Necessary?
If symptoms persist despite conservative treatments, your podiatrist may recommend:
🚨 Cortisone Injections – Reduce swelling and pain.
🚨 Alcohol Sclerosing Injections – Target and shrink the neuroma.
🚨 Surgical Removal of the Neuroma – Reserved for severe cases where nerve damage is significant.
Final Thoughts
Morton’s neuroma can be painful, but early intervention and lifestyle changes can prevent it from worsening. If you experience persistent foot pain, don’t ignore it—schedule an appointment with Podiatry of Greater Cleveland today!📞 Call us at (440) 884-4100 or visit www.clevelandfoot.com to book your consultation!