Morton’s Neuroma is the most common neuroma in the foot. A neuroma is a thickening, or enlargement, of the nerve as a result of compression or irritation of the nerve. Compression and irritation create swelling of the nerve, which can eventually lead to permanent nerve damage.

It occurs in the forefoot area (the ball of the foot) at the base of the third and fourth toes. It is sometimes referred to as an intermetatarsal neuroma. “Intermetatarsal” describes its location – in the ball of the foot between the metatarsal bones (the bones extending from the toes to the midfoot).

A Morton’s Neuroma often develops gradually. At first the symptoms may occur only occasionally, when wearing narrower shoes or performing certain activities. The symptoms may go away temporarily by massaging the foot or by avoiding aggravating shoes or activities. Over time the symptoms progressively worsen and may persist for several days or weeks. The symptoms become more intense as the neuroma enlarges and the temporary changes in the nerve become permanent.

Anything that causes compression or irritation of the nerve can lead to the development of a neuroma. One of the most common causes comes from wearing shoes that have a tapered toe box, or high-heeled shoes that cause the toes to be forced into the toe box and overload pressure onto the forefoot. An injury or trauma to the forefoot may also lead to a Morton’s Neuroma.

If your foot is causing you concern or pain, you may need to book an appointment for a Lower Limb Musculoskeletal Assessment.  This Assessment is a series of clinical tests to determine the underlying cause of the pain and discomfort you are experiencing. At the end of the assessment, your Podiatrist will give you a treatment plan to help get you back to doing the things you love.