Neuromas FAQs

What is a neuroma?

A neuroma occurs when nerve tissue thickens. This condition can appear anywhere in your body, but when it’s in your foot, it’s called Morton’s neuroma.

Morton’s neuroma develops where nerves pass under ligaments, most often in the ball of your foot, between your third and fourth toes. The nerve thickens when it’s compressed and becomes irritated. As the nerve enlarges over time, you can end up with permanent nerve damage.

What causes Morton’s neuroma?

Poorly fitting shoes are one of the top causes of Morton’s neuroma. You’re at a higher risk if you wear shoes with a pointed toe or high-heeled shoes that push your toes down into the toe box.

Foot deformities such as bunions, hammertoes, and flat feet also increase your chance of developing Morton’s neuroma. An injury to the ball of your foot and repetitive activities like running are also primary causes of this nerve problem.

What are the symptoms of Morton’s neuroma?

Morton’s neuroma typically causes pain that may be dull and mild or sharp and severe. In some cases, your toes may feel numb, or you may experience a tingling or burning sensation in the bottom of your foot.

Many patients say it feels like there’s a lump inside the ball of their foot or as if they have a stone in their shoe.

Symptoms of Morton’s neuroma often follow a pattern. They begin gradually, often only appearing when you wear narrow-toed shoes or engage in a specific activity. Then your symptoms may go away temporarily when you remove your shoes or massage your foot. However, symptoms may return and progressively worsen, becoming more severe as the neuroma enlarges and the nerve damage becomes permanent.

How is Morton’s neuroma treated?

Your treatment depends on the severity and stage of your neuroma. Treatment options include:

Conservative treatments

Your doctor may prescribe roomier, lower-heeled footwear and extra shoe padding, or orthotics to reduce pressure on the nerve. You may need to change your activities, eliminating repetitive pressure on the neuroma until the nerve has time to heal.

Some men and women benefit from oral medications or corticosteroid injections to reduce inflammation and relieve pain.

Surgical treatment

The doctors at Utah Podiatry, a foot and ankle clinic, are highly experienced, so if your neuroma doesn’t respond to conservative treatments, they may suggest surgery to remove the affected nerve.

You can get relief from pain and prevent nerve damage of Morton’s neuroma by calling Utah Podiatry, a foot and ankle clinic, or requesting an appointment online.