Fax: (239) 692-9436
Tel: 239-430-3668Ever Feel Like You’re Walking on a Marble? It Could Be Morton’s Neuroma
October 7 2025
If it feels like you’re walking on a marble or pebble in your shoe, you might have Morton’s Neuroma — a common nerve condition causing forefoot pain. Learn symptoms, causes, and treatments from the specialists at Family Foot & Leg Center in Naples, FL.
What Is Morton’s Neuroma?
If every step feels like you’re treading on a pebble, you might be dealing with Morton’s Neuroma — a painful condition caused by a thickened or irritated nerve in the ball of your foot.
This nerve compression usually occurs between the third and fourth toes and can cause:
- A burning or stabbing pain in the forefoot
- Tingling or numbness in the toes
- The sensation of “a marble under your foot”
Despite the name, a neuroma isn’t a tumor — it’s a nerve irritation that can worsen over time if not treated.
What Causes Morton’s Neuroma?
Morton’s Neuroma often develops from repetitive stress or pressure on the forefoot. Some common causes include:
👠 Footwear Choices: Tight, narrow, or high-heeled shoes compress the nerves.
🦶 Foot Structure: Flat feet, high arches, bunions, or hammertoes alter pressure distribution.
🏃 Repetitive Impact: Activities like running, dancing, or prolonged standing can aggravate the nerve.
If you have a foot shape or lifestyle that adds stress to the ball of your foot, you’re more at risk.
Signs and Symptoms to Watch For
Early symptoms may seem mild, but ignoring them can lead to chronic pain.
Watch for these signs:
- Pain in the ball of your foot, especially when walking or wearing tight shoes
- A burning or tingling sensation radiating to your toes
- Feeling like there’s a fold in your sock or a small stone underfoot
If you’re noticing these sensations regularly, it’s time to see a podiatrist.
How We Diagnose Morton’s Neuroma
At the Family Foot & Leg Center, our podiatrists use a thorough exam and diagnostic imaging (such as ultrasound or MRI) to pinpoint the source of your discomfort.
We’ll assess your footwear, gait, and foot structure to identify the underlying cause — not just the symptoms.
Treatment Options for Morton’s Neuroma
The goal of treatment is to reduce pressure and inflammation on the affected nerve.
Conservative treatment options include:
- 👟 Supportive footwear with a wide toe box
- 🦶 Custom orthotics to offload pressure from the ball of the foot
- 💊 Anti-inflammatory medications or ice therapy
- 💉 Corticosteroid or alcohol injections to reduce nerve inflammation
If conservative care doesn’t relieve your symptoms, minimally invasive or surgical treatments can be considered to decompress or remove the affected nerve.
Preventing Morton’s Neuroma
You can lower your risk by:
- Wearing comfortable, well-fitted shoes with plenty of toe space
- Avoiding high heels and narrow footwear
- Stretching and strengthening your feet regularly
- Using orthotic inserts if you have flat feet or high arches
Simple lifestyle changes can make a big difference in long-term foot health.
When to See a Podiatrist
If pain in the ball of your foot persists, don’t wait for it to go away on its own. Early treatment can prevent permanent nerve damage and get you back to walking comfortably.
At Family Foot & Leg Center, our specialists provide advanced diagnostic tools and customized treatment plans to help you return to pain-free walking — quickly and safely.
Take the First Step Toward Relief
Don’t let foot pain slow you down. If you suspect Morton’s Neuroma or experience any type of forefoot pain, we’re here to help.
📞 Call us today: 239-430-3668 (FOOT)
🌐 Visit: NaplesPodiatrist.com
Let’s get you back to pain-free steps — because every step should feel effortless. 💙
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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