Morton’s Neuroma
Assessment and evidence based care for forefoot pain and ball of foot discomfort
If you feel a burning pain through the ball of your foot, or it seems like you are constantly standing on a pebble or a bunched-up sock, you may be experiencing a forefoot condition known as Morton’s Neuroma.
What is a Morton’s Neuroma?
A Morton’s Neuroma occurs when the small nerve that runs between the long bones of the foot becomes irritated, inflamed and thickened. It most commonly affects the nerve between the third and fourth toes and can lead to symptoms that gradually worsen over time.
Common symptoms
- Sharp or burning pain in the ball of the foot
- Pain that radiates into two or more toes
- Tingling or numbness in the affected toes
- A feeling of pressure or a “lump” under the forefoot
What causes Morton’s Neuroma?
Morton’s Neuroma develops when the nerve between the toes is placed under ongoing pressure or compression. Several factors may contribute, including:
Footwear
Shoes that are narrow, tight, or elevated at the heel increase pressure through the forefoot and can irritate the nerve.
High-impact activity
Running, court sports, dance, and activities involving repeated forefoot loading may increase stress on the nerve.
Foot structure
Bunions, high arches, flat feet and other biomechanical variations can alter forefoot pressure and increase the likelihood of developing a neuroma.
How we help
Our Podiatrists will take the time to understand your symptoms, lifestyle and goals before tailoring a treatment plan that helps reduce nerve irritation and restore comfortable movement. Treatment may include:
- Footwear advice and modification
- Padding and strapping to offload the nerve
- Custom or prefabricated orthotics with metatarsal domes
- Toe spacers to improve alignment
- Shockwave therapy
- Foot and ankle joint mobilisation
- Graduated activity modification
- Strengthening for foot, toe and lower limb muscles
- Gait re-training to reduce forefoot stress
Where beneficial, your treatment may also draw on other elements of the Active Tool Kit, including data-driven strength assessment, Exercise Physiology support or collaboration with your wider care team.
Our goal is to help you move with confidence, reduce symptoms, and return to the activities you enjoy. Progress is supported through your tailored plan and guided through our three-phase recovery approach.
Start feeling comfortable again
If you are experiencing pain in the ball of your foot, our friendly Podiatrists are here to help. We will guide you through a clear plan designed to reduce pain, improve function and get you back on your feet doing what you love.
Our Practitioners with a special interest in Morton’s Neuroma
Book Your Appointment
Take the first step towards moving better and feeling stronger. Book online or contact us direct to schedule your initial consultation.
