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What Is That Tingling in Your Toes? Understanding Morton’s Neuroma

Have you ever felt like there’s a small pebble stuck in your shoe — but when you check, there’s nothing there? Or maybe your toes tingle or burn, especially when you're walking or wearing tight shoes? If that sounds familiar, you might be dealing with a common foot condition called Morton’s neuroma.

Don't worry — it’s not dangerous, but it can be annoying and painful. Let’s break it down in simple terms.

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What Is Morton’s Neuroma?

Morton’s neuroma is a thickening of the tissue around a nerve in the foot, most commonly between the third and fourth toes. It’s not actually a tumor (even though “neuroma” sounds scary), but rather a swollen nerve — usually caused by irritation, pressure, or repeated stress.

This irritation causes the nerve to become inflamed and enlarged, which leads to the symptoms most people notice. It more commonly affects women than men.

What Does It Feel Like?

People with Morton’s neuroma often describe:

  • A sharp, burning pain in the ball of the foot

  • Tingling or numbness in the toes

  • A feeling like you're standing on a pebble or fold in your sock

  • Discomfort that gets worse when walking, especially in tight shoes or high heels

  • Relief when taking shoes off or rubbing the foot

Symptoms often come and go at first, but they can become more constant over time if not addressed.

What Causes It?

Morton’s neuroma is usually caused by pressure or irritation to the nerve between your toes. This pressure may come from:

  • Tight or narrow shoes (especially high heels or pointy shoes)

  • Repetitive activities like running or sports that put pressure on the forefoot

  • Foot structure issues like flat feet, high arches, or bunions

  • Wearing shoes that don’t provide enough support or cushioning

  • Standing for long periods on hard surfaces

Women tend to get it more often than men, possibly because of shoe choices.

How Is It Diagnosed?

A doctor or podiatrist will usually:

  • Ask about your symptoms and footwear

  • Examine your foot and press on the area to check for tenderness or a clicking sensation (Mulder's click)

  • Possibly order an ultrasound or MRI to confirm the diagnosis (X-rays typically won't show a neuroma)

How Is It Treated?

The goal is to relieve the pressure on the nerve. Most people's symptoms improve without surgery. Common treatments include:

  • Changing your shoes: Switch to ones with a wide toe box and good cushioning

  • Orthotics or foot pads: Inserts that take pressure off the nerve

  • Rest and ice: Especially if symptoms flare up

  • Anti-inflammatory medications: Like ibuprofen to reduce pain and swelling

  • Corticosteroid injections: To calm inflammation around the nerve

If the pain doesn’t improve after a few months, a podiatrist might recommend:

  • Shockwave therapy: Minimally invasive treatments to reduce nerve pain

  • Surgery: As a last resort, the neuroma may be removed by an orthopaedic or podiatric surgeon.

Most people respond well to non-surgical treatment, especially if diagnosed quickly and treatment commenced ASAP.

Can It Be Prevented?


 
 
 

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