Understanding the Foot Pain That Feels Like a Pebble in Your Shoe

June 18 2025

What Is a Neuroma?

Have you ever felt like you’re walking on a pebble—even when nothing’s there? Or experienced a burning, tingling sensation between your toes? These odd, uncomfortable symptoms may point to a common yet often misunderstood condition known as a neuroma.

At Family Foot & Leg Center, we help patients every day get to the root of their foot pain—often without the need for surgery. Let’s explore what a neuroma is, what causes it, and how early intervention can make all the difference.

 

What Exactly Is a Neuroma?

A neuroma is a thickening of nerve tissue, most commonly found between the third and fourth toes. This condition is also referred to as Morton’s neuroma, and it occurs when the nerve becomes irritated or compressed, leading to a host of painful symptoms.

Common Symptoms of a Neuroma

* Tingling or burning in the ball of the foot
* Sharp or shooting pain when walking or standing
* A feeling like you’re stepping on a small rock or marble
* Numbness in the toes, especially the third and fourth
* Discomfort that worsens with tight shoes or prolonged activity

These symptoms might come and go at first, but without treatment, they often worsen over time.

 

What Causes a Neuroma?

Several factors can contribute to the development of a neuroma, including:

* Wearing tight, narrow, or high-heeled shoes
* High-impact sports that involve running or court play
* Flat feet or high arches, which alter pressure on the forefoot
* Previous trauma or injury to the foot

Neuromas are more common in women than men, primarily due to footwear choices that compress the forefoot.

 

Why Early Intervention Matters

The earlier a neuroma is diagnosed, the easier it is to manage. When caught in the early stages, treatment is typically non-surgical and highly effective.

At FFLC, we offer a range of conservative treatments, including:

* Custom orthotics to reduce pressure on the affected nerve
* Padding or footwear modifications to relieve discomfort
* Anti-inflammatory medications or injections
* MLS laser therapy and other advanced modalities to reduce nerve inflammation

When left untreated, neuromas can progress, causing persistent pain and sometimes leading to surgical intervention. That’s why early evaluation is key.

Don’t let a neuroma keep you from enjoying your daily life. At Family Foot & Leg Center, our expert providers—led by renowned foot and ankle specialist Dr. Kevin Lam—are here to pinpoint the cause of your pain and get you back on your feet with a personalized treatment plan.

📞 Call (239) 430-3668 (FOOT)

Stop walking on discomfort—start walking on relief.

 

Serving Southwest Florida Since 2005, Family Foot & Leg Center has 9 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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