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Bunions, Toes & Forefoot Conditions

Morton's Neuroma

Causes, symptoms, and treatment for Morton's neuroma, with care at 15 clinics across Middle Tennessee.

Part of Bunions, Toes & Forefoot Conditions

Understanding Morton's neuroma and your options.

Morton's neuroma is a thickening of the tissue around a nerve between the toe bones. It usually occurs between the third and fourth toes. The pinched nerve can cause sharp, odd sensations in the front of the foot.

It is more common in adults, and women notice it more often. Acting early may help you avoid long-term nerve irritation.

Also called: Intermetatarsal Neuroma

Request an appointmentCall 615-220-8788
Morton's Neuroma care

Symptoms

Signs of Morton's neuroma.

If you notice these signs, an exam can give you clear answers.

  • 01

    Burning or tingling in the ball of the foot and toes

  • 02

    A feeling of a lump or wrinkled sock under the toes

  • 03

    Sharp pain that eases when you take off your shoes

  • 04

    Numbness in the space between two toes

Why it happens

What can cause Morton's neuroma.

  • 01

    Tight or narrow shoes that squeeze the toes

  • 02

    High heels that shift weight onto the forefoot

  • 03

    Repeated pressure from running or court sports

  • 04

    A flat foot or other foot shape that stresses the nerve

Care groupBunions, Toes & Forefoot Conditions

Diagnosis and care

How we treat Morton's neuroma.

Step 1 · Diagnosis

We press on the space between the toes and squeeze the forefoot to see if it brings on your symptoms. Ultrasound can often show the thickened nerve, and MRI may be used if the picture is unclear. X-rays help rule out other causes such as a stress fracture.

Step 2 · Treatment

Wide shoes with a low heel give the nerve room. A small pad placed behind the ball of the foot can spread the toes apart, and custom orthotics can reduce pinching. Ice and rest from aggravating activity may calm flare-ups. An injection near the nerve is sometimes used for stubborn pain.

If symptoms continue after good non-surgical care, surgery can release pressure on the nerve or remove the affected piece of it. Your surgeon will explain the tradeoffs, including some lasting numbness.

Recovery

What to expect over time.

Many people improve over several weeks to a few months with shoe changes and pads. After surgery, expect a few weeks in protective footwear and gradual return to activity.

When to book

Do not wait it out.

Make a visit if burning or numbness in your toes lasts more than a week or two. Do not wait if the pain wakes you at night or keeps you from doing daily tasks.

Call 615-220-8788

Related care

More in Bunions, Toes & Forefoot Conditions.

FAQ

Your questions answered.

Is a neuroma a tumor?

No. It is a thickening of tissue around a nerve, not a cancer.

Can I still wear heels?

Heels tend to make it worse. Save them for short events and choose roomy, low shoes most of the time.

Get help with Morton's neuroma.

Request an appointmentCall 615-220-8788

Where we treat it

Morton's Neuroma care at 15 clinics.

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