MORTON'S NEUROMA
Burning, tingling or numbness between your toes?
Morton's neuroma involves irritation or thickening of the tissue surrounding a nerve leading to the toes. Our podiatrists can assess the nerve compression and help relieve discomfort
COMMON SYMPTOMS
Does any of this sound familiar?
Morton's neuroma is typically characterized by nerve-related sensations in the forefoot. Common symptoms include:
- Burning pain or electric-shock sensations between the toes
- A sensation of walking on a marble, folded sock or lump in your shoe
- Numbness, tingling or pins-and-needles spreading into adjacent toes
- Pain that worsens in narrow, tight or high-heeled shoes
- An urge to take off your shoe and rub the ball of your foot for relief
- Discomfort during walking, running, or prolonged standing
Conservative podiatric management helps many people avoid invasive surgery.
We focus on opening the space between the metatarsals to relieve nerve compression.
POSSIBLE CAUSES
What may be causing Morton's neuroma?
Irritation of the interdigital nerve occurs when surrounding structures compress it repeatedly:
Narrow footwear
Shoes with a tapered toe box squeeze the metatarsals together, compressing the nerve.
High heels
Elevating the heel shifts body weight forward onto the forefoot and pinches the nerve.
Repetitive high impact
Activities involving repetitive push-off, like running or racquet sports, stress the forefoot.
Foot structure
Flat feet, high arches, bunions, or hammer toes can alter forefoot alignment.
WHEN TO SEEK ASSESSMENT
When should you consider getting Morton's neuroma checked?
Consider arranging an assessment if:
- Burning, tingling or numbness in your toes is becoming frequent
- You have to remove your shoes repeatedly during the day for relief
- Switching to wider shoes alone has not resolved the symptoms
- Walking or exercise is becoming limited by forefoot pain
- You want a clear clinical diagnosis from a podiatrist
YOUR APPOINTMENT
What happens when you come to see us?
We perform clinical nerve tests to confirm where the irritation sits
We listen
We review your symptoms, when they trigger, and what footwear you wear.
We assess
Your podiatrist performs specific clinical tests such as Mulder's click to assess the nerve.
We explain
We explain how the nerve is being compressed and what options exist to relieve pressure.
We plan
You receive an individualized management plan focusing on offloading and recovery.
TREATMENT OPTIONS
Treatment depends on what we find
Management focuses on opening the intermetatarsal space and reducing compression. Options include:
Not every treatment is appropriate for every patient. Your podiatrist will discuss suitable options after assessment.
- Prescription orthotics with metatarsal pads
- Footwear guidance & wide toe-box recommendations
- Biomechanical assessment & gait analysis
- Class 4 laser therapy for persistent nerve pain
- Diagnostic ultrasound imaging where indicated
- Activity modification advice
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FAQ
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READY TO GET STARTED?
Ready to get your Morton's neuroma assessed?
Book online at a time that suits you, or request a callback if you're unsure which appointment is right for you.