Morton's Neuroma: Symptoms, Causes & Treatments

What is Morton's Neuroma?

Morton's Neuroma is a painful foot condition that affects the ball of the foot, typically between the third and fourth toes. It involves the thickening of the tissue around one of the nerves leading to the toes, creating a non-cancerous nerve growth.

While the neuroma itself is benign, the pressure it places on the nerve can lead to burning sensations, sharp pain, or numbness. The condition is particularly common in individuals who wear tight or high-heeled shoes or participate in high-impact sports.

Common Symptoms of Morton's Neuroma

If you’re experiencing any of the following symptoms, it could be an indication of Morton's Neuroma:

• A sensation like you're standing on a pebble or fold in your sock
  
  
• Burning pain in the ball of the foot, often radiating into the toes
  
  
• Tingling or numbness in the toes
  
  
• Discomfort aggravated by tight shoes or prolonged walking
  
  
• Visible toe spreading ("daylight sign")
  
  
• Pain when tiptoeing or placing pressure on the forefoot
  

These symptoms can develop gradually and may become more intense over time if not properly managed.

Causes and Risk Factors

Morton’s Neuroma is primarily caused by compression or irritation of the nerve, typically due to excessive pressure or poor foot mechanics. Factors contributing to its development include:

• Wearing high heels or narrow shoes with a tight toe box
  
  
• Participation in high-impact sports like running or aerobics
  
  
• Foot injuries or trauma
  
  
• Flat feet or high arches
  
  
• Tight leg muscles or poor biomechanics
  
  
• Prolonged use of ill-fitting winter boots
  

Women are more likely to develop this condition, mainly due to footwear choices. However, anyone with a physically active lifestyle is at risk.

Conservative Treatment Options at Flawless Feet

At Flawless Feet Podiatry & Laser Clinic in London, our first approach is always non-surgical and personalised. Here are several ways we treat Morton's Neuroma:

1. Footwear Modification

Switching to supportive shoes with a wide toe box can immediately relieve nerve pressure. We provide footwear advice tailored to your daily activities and lifestyle.

2. Custom Orthotics

Custom-made orthotics can correct abnormal foot mechanics and redistribute pressure, alleviating stress on the neuroma.

3. Low-Level Laser Therapy

Laser treatment helps reduce inflammation and nerve irritation. It's pain-free and suitable for most patients.

4. Shockwave Therapy

This non-invasive therapy stimulates healing by increasing blood flow to the affected area and breaking down scar tissue around the nerve.

When to Consider Surgery

If conservative treatment options fail to relieve symptoms, surgical excision of the neuroma may be considered. This procedure is generally safe but involves a longer recovery time.

At Flawless Feet Podiatry & Laser Clinic, we consider surgery a last resort and only recommend it when all other methods have been exhausted.

Take the First Step Toward Pain-Free Living

If you suspect you may have Morton's Neuroma, don’t wait for the pain to worsen. Early intervention is key to avoiding long-term discomfort. Book a comprehensive foot and gait assessment with our expert team at Flawless Feet Podiatry & Laser Clinic in London.

• Experienced Podiatry and Chiropodists in London specialising in neuroma management
  
• State-of-the-art treatments including shockwave and laser therapy
  
• Personalised care plans tailored to your lifestyle
  
• Multiple locations across London for convenient access
  
• Friendly, professional team focused on holistic recovery
  

Let us help you move better, feel better, and live better.