Neuromas
If you’re experiencing a burning or sharp pain in the ball of your foot that sometimes shoots into your toes, you may have a neuroma—a common yet painful nerve condition of the forefoot.
At Leading Edge Podiatry, we offer effective, evidence-based treatment options to relieve pain and address the root cause of your symptoms. Our goal is to help you get back on your feet—comfortably and confidently.
What Is a Neuroma?
A neuroma is a thickening or irritation of a nerve between the long bones (metatarsals) in the front of your foot. The most common type is Morton’s Neuroma, which affects the nerve between the third and fourth toes. As the nerve becomes compressed or irritated, it can lead to pain, tingling, numbness, and a strange “pebble-in-the-shoe” sensation.
Some neuromas cause significant pain and disruption, while others may be present without symptoms.
What Does a Neuroma Feel Like?
If you have a symptomatic neuroma, you might notice:
- Burning pain in the ball of the foot
- Electric shock–like sensations extending into the toes
- Feeling like you’re walking on a wrinkled sock or pebble
- Numbness or tingling in one or more toes
Pain from neuromas often worsens with tight footwear or extended periods of walking and standing.
What Causes a Neuroma?
While the exact cause is still debated, neuromas are generally linked to compression or repetitive trauma to the digital nerves in the forefoot. Several contributing factors include:
- Tight or narrow shoes (especially high heels)
- Foot deformities like bunions, flat feet, or high arches
- Sports or activities that involve repetitive forefoot pressure
- Biomechanical issues leading to abnormal foot loading
When the nerve is repeatedly irritated, it can swell and thicken—leading to persistent symptoms.
How We Treat Neuromas
At Leading Edge Podiatry, we take a conservative, step-by-step approach tailored to your symptoms and activity level:
We assess your current shoes and may recommend switching to footwear with a wider toe box and better cushioning to reduce pressure on the forefoot.
- Custom Orthotics
We can design custom orthotics with metatarsal pads or domes to offload pressure from the neuroma and spread the toes to reduce nerve compression.
- Imaging Referral
In some cases, we may refer you for ultrasound to confirm the presence and location of the neuroma.
- Surgical Referral (If Needed)
Surgery to remove the neuroma is considered a last resort, only after all conservative options have been tried without success. If required, we can recommend you to a trusted foot surgeon for further management.
❓ Still have questions about neuromas?
Visit our Neuroma FAQ page. Our Neuroma FAQs provide clear answers to the most common questions.
Let’s Get You Back on Your Feet
Neuroma pain can be frustrating, but with the right diagnosis and personalised treatment plan, it’s highly manageable. Don’t let burning foot pain slow you down—we’re here to help.
👉 Book Online Now
📞 Or call us on 08 7120 6063 to speak with our experienced podiatry team
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