Morton's Neuroma Treatment

What is a Morton’s Neuroma?

Morton’s Neuroma is a condition that affects the nerves in your feet, causing pain, discomfort, and sometimes swelling. It typically develops between the third and fourth toes, although it can occur between other toes as well. The condition is often described as a feeling of having a "lump" or "pinch" in the ball of the foot.

Common symptoms of Morton’s Neuroma include:

Signs & Symptoms:

  • Pain or burning sensation in the ball of the foot
  • Sharp or shooting pain that may radiate to the toes
  • A feeling of a lump or “something stuck” or “clicking” in the foot
  • Numbness or tingling in the toes
  • Worsening pain when wearing tight shoes, high heels, or during physical activity
  • Relief when removing shoes and massaging the area

Symptoms can range from mild to severe and may worsen over time if left untreated.

Common Causes:

The exact cause of Morton’s Neuroma is not fully understood, but several factors may contribute to its development:

  • Repetitive pressure or irritation on the foot, especially from tight or narrow shoes.
  • High heels or shoes with inadequate support.
  • Foot deformities, such as flat feet, hypermobile feet, bunions, or high arches, which can alter the distribution of pressure on the foot.
  • Activity-related stress, such as running or sports that involve repetitive pressure on the forefoot.
  • Nerve irritation due to abnormal bone or tissue growth around the nerve.

Diagnosis:

To diagnose Morton’s Neuroma, your podiatrist with conduct a physical examination of your foot and ask about your symptoms and medical history. They may also request the following:

  • Imaging tests, such as an X-ray, to rule out other conditions like fractures or arthritis.
  • Ultrasound which can help visualize the neuroma and surrounding tissues.

Treatment Options:

Treatment for Morton’s Neuroma depends on the severity of the symptoms. Most people find relief with conservative treatments, but in some cases, surgery may be necessary.

1. Conservative Treatments:

  • Footwear changes: Wearing shoes with a wide toe box and low heels to reduce pressure on the toes.
  • Padding and orthotics: Custom insoles or foot pads that provide cushioning and offloading.
  • Rest: Avoiding activities that exacerbate pain, such as running or standing for long periods.
  • Ice: Applying ice packs to reduce swelling and numb the area.
  • Anti-inflammatory medications: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen may help reduce pain and swelling.
  • Corticosteroid injections: For severe pain, a steroid injection may be indicated to reduce inflammation and relieve pain.

3. Surgical Intervention

(if needed):

If conservative treatments do not provide relief, surgery may be considered.  Patients will be referred to a surgeon if this is indicated.

  • Neurectomy: Removing the affected nerve entirely. This may result in permanent numbness in the area, but typically resolves the pain.

Preventing a Morton’s Neuroma:

While you cannot always prevent Morton’s Neuroma, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk:

  • Wear properly fitting shoes with a wide toe box and avoid high heels.
  • Use insoles or orthotics to provide control in a hypermobile foot
  • Avoid repetitive stress on the feet by taking breaks during physical activities.
  • Stretch regularly to maintain flexibility in the foot and prevent tension buildup.


  • If the callus becomes painful, very thick, red, or inflamed, indicating possible infection.
  • If there are any signs of infection such as warmth, pus, or increased swelling.
  • If the callus is associated with an underlying condition, like diabetes or poor circulation. These conditions can place the feet at risk to more vulnerable to complications.

When to See a Podiatrist:

If you experience persistent pain, numbness, or tingling in your foot that doesn’t improve with rest or changes in footwear, it’s important to consult with a podiatrist. Early intervention can help prevent the condition from worsening and improve your chances of effective treatment.

Conclusion: 

Morton’s Neuroma is a painful condition, but with the right treatment, most people can find relief and resume normal activities. If you suspect you have Morton’s Neuroma, talk to a podiatrist about the best course of action for your individual situation.

Don’t let Morton's Neuroma disrupt your life. Contact Silverstream Podiatry on +64 4 528 7650