MORTON'S NEUROMA
Burning, tingling or numbness between your third and fourth 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 third and fourth 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.
HAVE A QUESTION?
Ask Our Podiatry Assistant
Get instant answers about appointments, treatments, pricing, insurance or what to expect.
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
- Shockwave therapy for persistent nerve pain
- Diagnostic ultrasound imaging where indicated
- Activity modification advice
We're here for you
Tired of Living With Pain? We Can Help
STEP 1 OF 2
Request a callback
Fill in your details and one of our team members will be in touch to help.
- Not sure who to ask?
- Not sure what to do next?
- Not sure who can help?
Please fill out the form and chat with one of our team members about your right next step.
OUR CLINICIANS
You'll be seen by our podiatry team
Our clinicians assess a wide range of foot, ankle and lower-limb problems and will explain your options clearly.
Matthew Francis
Clinical Director / Managing Podiatrist
Megan Kelly
General & High Risk Foot Podiatrist
Yaw Nimoh
MSK, Sports & Advanced Practice Podiatrist
Patient Reviews
What our patients say about their care
Real feedback from individuals who have trusted our clinical team with their mobility and foot health.
FAQ
Morton's neuroma FAQs
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.