What is it?
A Morton's neuroma is a thickening of a nerve between the toes, most often between the third and fourth toes. The nerve becomes irritated and causes pain in the ball of the foot.
What causes it?
- Pressure on the nerve from tight or high-heeled shoes.
- Repeated impact from activities such as running.
- Foot shape, including bunions or high arches.
Common symptoms
- A burning or sharp pain in the ball of the foot.
- Tingling or numbness in the toes.
- A feeling of standing on a pebble or a fold in the sock.
- Relief when the shoe is removed and the foot massaged.
How is it diagnosed?
Diagnosis is mainly by examination. An ultrasound or MRI scan can confirm it and rule out other causes.
Things you can do now
- Wear wider shoes with a low heel
- Try a metatarsal pad just behind the ball of the foot
- Take your shoe off and massage the foot when symptoms start
- Reduce high-impact activities for a while
Treatment
Treatment is tailored to your individual needs, symptoms and goals. Depending on your situation, it may include wider shoes with a low heel, a metatarsal pad or insole, changes to activity, a guided steroid injection and surgery to remove the nerve or release the ligament pressing on it.
Mr Jeyaseelan will talk you through the options that are right for you at your consultation.
When to see a specialist
- Burning pain, tingling or numbness between the toes continues despite wider shoes
- It feels like walking on a stone or a folded sock
- Symptoms are affecting your daily life
What to expect
Many people improve with footwear changes and an injection. If symptoms persist, surgery to remove the nerve is usually successful, leaving a small area of numbness between the toes.
Common questions
Where can I see a specialist about Morton's neuroma in London?
Mr Lucky Jeyaseelan, a consultant orthopaedic surgeon who specialises only in the foot and ankle, sees private and insured patients with morton's neuroma at Align Orthopaedics on Harley Street, The London Clinic on Devonshire Place, HCA London Bridge Hospital, HCA UK at The Shard, HCA UK City of London on Old Broad Street and The Holly Hospital in Buckhurst Hill, Essex. See all clinic locations or request an appointment.
Do I need a GP referral?
Self-funding patients can book directly, though a GP letter is helpful. Most insurers need a GP referral before they authorise your consultation, so check with yours first.
This information is general and is not a substitute for a medical consultation. Your diagnosis and treatment plan will be tailored to you.