Morton's Neuroma

What is Morton's Neuroma?

Morton's Neuroma is a condition involving irritation and compression of a nerve between the toes, most commonly between the third and fourth toes.

Over time, repeated compression and irritation can thicken the tissue surrounding the nerve, resulting in pain and altered sensation in the forefoot and toes.

Despite its name, a Morton's Neuroma is not a tumour. It is more accurately described as a thickened and irritated nerve resulting from ongoing compression and loading.

Symptoms

• Burning pain in the ball of the foot
• Tingling or numbness in the toes
• The sensation of standing on a pebble or a folded sock
• Pain that worsens with walking, standing, or exercise
• Symptoms aggravated by tight or narrow footwear
• Relief when removing shoes or massaging the foot

Causes

Morton's Neuroma develops when a nerve becomes repeatedly irritated or compressed.

Common contributing factors include:

• Tight or narrow footwear
• High-heeled shoes
• Increased forefoot loading
• Certain sporting activities
• Foot posture and biomechanics
• Bunions and other forefoot deformities
• Reduced the space between the metatarsal bones

Because your feet form the foundation of movement, the way your feet function can influence the loads passing through the forefoot and the pressures placed on the nerve.

When to see a podiatrist

We recommend an assessment if you are experiencing:

• Burning pain in the ball of the foot
• Numbness or tingling in the toes
• Symptoms that are affecting walking, exercise, work, or daily activities
• Recurring symptoms despite changing footwear
• Worsening pain over time

Early assessment often allows treatment to begin before symptoms become more persistent.

Importantly, not all forefoot pain is caused by Morton's Neuroma. Conditions such as metatarsalgia, plantar plate injuries, bursitis, stress fractures, and arthritis can present with similar symptoms and may require different treatment approaches.

How we treat Morton's Neuroma

At Masterton Foot Clinic, our Proven Process combines current evidence with extensive clinical experience.

We focus on identifying the factors contributing to nerve irritation and reducing the forces that cause compression through the forefoot.

Treatment is tailored to your symptoms, lifestyle, footwear, and activity levels.

Depending on your presentation, treatment may include:

• Footwear assessment and advice
• Custom Foot Orthoses
• Metatarsal offloading and padding
• Activity modification
• Load management strategies
• Foot Mobilisation Therapy (FMT), where appropriate
• Referral for corticosteroid injection where indicated
• Hydrodissection where appropriate
• Surgical referral in more persistent cases

Our goal is to reduce nerve irritation, improve comfort, and help you return to walking, work, exercise, and the activities you enjoy.