Morton’s Neuroma

What is a Morton’s Neuroma?

A Morton’s Neuroma is a lump of nerve and scar tissue that grows out of a nerve in the foot (figure 1). The nerve supplies feeling to the skin between the toes. Morton’s neuroma usually develops between the 2nd and 3rd or the 3rd and 4th toes. The nerve passes through a tight space between the bones in the ball of the foot (metatarsal heads). The nerve becomes trapped causing swelling which makes the lump to form. The lump is usually about the size of a pea.

You may experience:

localised pain e.g. a feeling of a stone in the shoe
pain made worse with narrow shoes
numbness and shooting pains between the toes
pain which is worse on walking

A scan is occasionally required to confirm the problem. X-rays may be taken to rule out problems with the joints of the toes or a fracture in the foot.

What are the treatments for Morton’s Neuroma?

There are simple treatments which do not involve an operation.

These include:

wearing softer, wider fronted shoes
insoles

A podiatrist will be able to give advice on these types of treatment.

Your surgeon can advise whether a steroid injection might help. Sometimes this can give temporary or permanent relief.

What about surgery for Morton’s Neuroma?

Find out about surgical options >

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