4 Must-Knows About Morton’s Neuroma: What’s Causing That Burning, Tingling Foot Pain?

July 26 2025

If you’ve ever felt like there’s a pebble stuck in your shoe—even when there isn’t—there’s a good chance you’re dealing with Morton’s neuroma. This common foot condition affects countless people each year, yet many don’t know what it is or how to treat it properly.

At Family Foot & Leg Center, we believe in educating patients about their conditions. So here are the four most important things you need to know about Morton’s neuroma—and how you can find lasting relief.

1. It’s a Thickened Nerve Between Your Toes

Morton’s neuroma occurs when a nerve in your foot—usually between the third and fourth toes—becomes thickened due to pressure or irritation. This nerve inflammation can be triggered by tight shoes, high heels, repetitive stress, or foot structure issues like flat feet or bunions.

Common symptoms include:

Burning or tingling in the ball of your foot
Numbness or pain radiating into the toes
The sensation of walking on a small stone

It’s not a tumor, despite the name “neuroma”—just a nerve reacting to stress.

2. We Diagnose with Exams and Imaging

If you’re experiencing these symptoms, don’t guess—get it checked out. At Family Foot & Leg Center, we use:

Physical exams to assess tenderness or nerve compression
Imaging tools like X-ray (to rule out other causes), ultrasound, or MRI to confirm the diagnosis

The earlier we can identify Morton’s neuroma, the easier it is to treat without surgery.

3. Try Orthotics First—They Reduce Pressure Naturally

One of the most effective first steps in treating Morton’s neuroma is custom orthotics. These specially designed shoe inserts help:

Redistribute pressure on the forefoot
Support proper foot alignment
Prevent further irritation of the nerve

In many cases, conservative care—orthotics, switching to wider shoes, and avoiding high-impact activities—can eliminate pain without more invasive procedures.

4. Still Hurting? Injections or Surgical Options Are Available

If pain persists despite conservative treatments, don’t worry—there are still options:

Corticosteroid injections can reduce inflammation around the nerve
In some cases, alcohol sclerosing injections are used to help shrink the nerve
For severe or chronic cases, surgical treatment such as neurectomy (removal of the nerve) or decompression may be recommended

Our expert podiatrists will walk you through the safest and most effective treatment based on your individual needs.

🦶 Don’t Let Foot Pain Hold You Back

Whether you’re dealing with a mild ache or persistent burning pain in your forefoot, Morton’s neuroma doesn’t have to slow you down. At Family Foot & Leg Center, we offer compassionate, advanced care to help you walk pain-free again.

📞 Schedule your evaluation today—your feet deserve the best.

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Serving Southwest Florida Since 2005, Family Foot & Leg Center has multiple convenient locations throughout Collier, Lee, Charlotte, and Sarasota Counties. Offering pediatric to geriatric family care: Ingrown Toenails, Heel Pain, Bunions, Foot / Ankle Arthritis Pain, Plantar Fasciitis, Foot / Ankle Surgery, Custom Orthotics, and Diabetic Wound Care. In office X-rays, ultrasounds, and minor surgical suite exam rooms. Practice powered by EMR and advanced technologies.

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