Morton’s Neuroma

What Morton’s neuroma is

Morton’s neuroma is a nerve related complaint in the forefoot, usually between the third and fourth toes, where the nerve becomes irritated and thickened. It tends to cause burning, tingling or a sense of something bunched under the ball of the foot, often worse in tight or narrow shoes.

Why it happens

Footwear, forefoot load and pressure, and the way you move through the front of the foot all contribute. Narrow or firm shoes commonly bring the symptoms on, which is a useful clue during assessment.

Who tends to get it

Forefoot nerve symptoms are more common in people who spend time in narrow, firm or high heeled shoes, and in activities that load the ball of the foot repeatedly. Footwear is often part of the picture, which is why what you wear day to day is a useful part of the assessment.

What else forefoot pain can be

Burning or tingling in the ball of the foot has more than one possible cause, so the first step is working out what is actually driving your symptoms. Pain under the ball of the foot, joint irritation and other nerve complaints can feel similar. The assessment is about identifying the cause before settling on a plan, rather than assuming.

What can help early on

Roomier, lower and softer shoes that take pressure off the forefoot often ease the symptoms, as does easing back on activities that load the ball of the foot. Many people notice relief when they take their shoes off and rub the foot, which is a useful clue rather than a fix. If the symptoms keep returning, it is worth being assessed so the cause can be confirmed.

How we approach it

The podiatrist examines the forefoot, looks at how you load through the step, and talks through your footwear and activity. The plan may include footwear and load changes, padding or orthotics where they suit, and in clinic options. Where a complaint is beyond conservative care, the podiatrist can guide you to the right onward option.

How we treat it

Conservative care manages most forefoot nerve complaints. A plan may include footwear changes, offloading the forefoot with padding or orthoses where they suit, and adjusting the activities that aggravate it. Where symptoms persist beyond conservative care, the podiatrist can talk through onward options, including referral where an injection or a surgical opinion is appropriate.