What is Morton's neuroma?

A neuroma is the thickening of nerves that may develop in various parts of the body.

The most common neuroma in the foot is a Morton’s neuroma, which occurs between the third and fourth toes affecting the nerves leading to the toes.

This nerve thickening happens due to compression and irritation such as wearing narrow shoes or high heeled shoes which can cause toes to be forced into the toe box. It can also be caused by abnormal foot biomechanics.

What does it feel like?

It is characterised by numbness, sharp/burning pain. These symptoms are more pronounced with the use of footwear that places more pressure on the toes or front part of the foot.

What can you do?

Avoid wearing tight, pointy or high-heeled shoes. Choose shoes with plenty of room for your toes such as those that are wider in the front.

What can we do?

A gait analysis and biomechanical assessment of your walking or running activities which cause pain can be performed as well as an ultrasound. Footwear recommendations and/or shoe padding and/or foot orthoses may be prescribed after the assessment. Sometimes, you may be referred to see a physician for an injection of corticosteroids.