Patient experiencing pain in the ball of the foot caused by Morton’s Neuroma

Morton’s Neuroma FAQ – Your Questions Answered by our Expert Podiatrist

Discover the most frequently asked questions about Morton’s Neuroma, including causes, symptoms, treatments, and prevention tips—answered by expert podiatrists at Leading Edge Podiatry.

1. What is Morton’s Neuroma?

Anatomical diagram showing an enlarged and thickened nerve (Morton's Neuroma) between the metatarsal bones of a human foot.

Morton’s Neuroma is a painful condition affecting the ball of your foot, most commonly between the third and fourth toes. It occurs when the tissue around one of the nerves leading to your toes thickens, causing a sharp, burning pain or the sensation of stepping on a pebble.

2. What causes Morton’s Neuroma?

Narrow and high-heeled shoes increasing pressure on forefoot nerves

Common causes include:

  • Wearing tight, narrow, or high-heeled shoes
  • Repetitive stress or impact activities (e.g., running)
  • Foot deformities like flat feet or bunions
    These factors increase pressure on the nerve, leading to irritation and thickening.

3. What are the symptoms of Morton’s Neuroma?

Burning pain and tingling in the ball of the foot from Morton’s Neuroma

Symptoms often include:

  • Burning or tingling pain in the ball of the foot
  • Feeling like there’s a small lump or pebble under your foot
  • Numbness in the toes
  • Pain that worsens with activity or tight shoes

4. How is Morton’s Neuroma diagnosed?

At Leading Edge Podiatry, diagnosis is made through:

  • Physical examination of the foot
  • Clinical tests such as a Mulder’s click test
  • Diagnostic ultrasound or MRI to confirm nerve enlargement

5. What are the non-surgical treatment options?

Custom orthotics used to relieve pressure from Morton’s Neuroma

Conservative treatment options include:

  • Wearing wide, supportive footwear
  • Custom orthotics to reduce pressure
  • Activity modification
  • Anti-inflammatory medications
  • Cortisone injections for pain relief

6. When should I see a podiatrist?

You should book an appointment if:

  • Foot pain persists for more than a few days
  • Symptoms worsen or limit your daily activity
  • You notice numbness or tingling in the toes

7. Can Morton’s Neuroma go away on its own?

In mild cases, pain may improve with rest and footwear changes. However, without proper intervention, symptoms often return or worsen over time. Early treatment improves outcomes significantly.

8. Is surgery necessary for Morton’s Neuroma?

Surgery is typically a last resort when conservative treatments fail. It involves removing the affected nerve or releasing the surrounding tissue. At Leading Edge Podiatry, we exhaust all non-invasive options before considering surgery.

9. How can I prevent Morton’s Neuroma?

Prevention tips:

  • Wear wide, cushioned shoes
  • Avoid high heels and narrow footwear
  • Use orthotics for foot alignment and support
  • Avoid repetitive high-impact sports without proper footwear

10. What is the recovery time for Morton’s Neuroma treatment?

Recovery depends on the treatment type:

  • Conservative treatments: improvement can be seen in weeks
  • Cortisone injections: relief within days
  • Surgery: full recovery may take 6–8 weeks, with proper rehab

👣 Get Expert Help at Leading Edge Podiatry

If you’re experiencing symptoms of Morton’s Neuroma, don’t wait for it to worsen. Our experienced podiatrists at Leading Edge Podiatry provide personalised care to get you back on your feet—pain-free.

Ready to take the next step? Book online today, give us a call on 08 7120 6063, or visit our Contact Page.

Scroll to Top