If you’re experiencing foot pain in the ball of your foot—particularly between your third and fourth toes—you may be dealing with Morton’s neuroma. Fortunately, a variety of non-surgical and surgical options are available to relieve pain and restore your mobility.
At Bluebonnet Foot and Ankle Institute, our expert team in Austin, Texas, specializes in diagnosing and treating Morton’s neuroma and other foot conditions like plantar fasciitis, helping you get back on your feet with confidence. Contact us today to schedule a consultation!
Morton’s neuroma is a painful condition that affects the nerves between the toe bones, most commonly between the third and fourth toes. It occurs when the tissue around one of the nerves leading to your toes thickens, resulting in irritation or compression of the affected nerve.
This pressure disrupts normal nerve function and causes pain signals to fire, often resulting in sharp, burning discomfort in the ball of your foot. Unlike some foot injuries, Morton’s neuroma doesn’t involve a visible lump or swelling. However, the nerve irritation can significantly interfere with walking, running, or even wearing certain shoes.
Several factors can contribute to the development of Morton’s neuroma. One of the leading causes is wearing high-heeled shoes or tight footwear that compresses the toe bones and narrows the space between the metatarsal bones, putting pressure on the nerve.
Other causes include:
Conditions like plantar fasciitis and biomechanical problems that alter your walking pattern may also increase your risk.
The symptoms of Morton’s neuroma usually develop gradually and can worsen over time. You might feel pain or discomfort in the ball of your foot, especially while walking or wearing certain shoes.
Common signs include:
If you frequently feel pain in this area or notice that the discomfort limits your activities, it’s time to seek professional care.
Diagnosing Morton’s neuroma involves a thorough physical examination and a review of your symptoms. A podiatrist will press on the ball of your foot to check for tenderness, pain, or a clicking sound between the metatarsal bones, often a sign of an affected nerve.
Imaging tests such as ultrasound or MRI may be used to rule out other foot injuries or conditions, especially if symptoms persist despite initial treatment.
There are a variety of treatment options to relieve pain and treat Morton’s neuroma, depending on the severity of the condition. At Bluebonnet Foot and Ankle Institute, we begin with conservative approaches before considering surgical treatment.
Non-surgical treatments may include:
These other treatments often prove effective for many patients, especially in the early stages. However, if you continue to feel pain and experience persistent symptoms despite conservative care, we may recommend surgery.
Morton’s neuroma surgery involves removing the thickened nerve tissue or relieving the pressure on the nerve by releasing nearby ligaments. Surgical treatment is typically reserved for patients with chronic pain who haven’t responded to non-surgical methods. Our board-certified podiatrists and orthopaedic surgeons will guide you through the decision-making process and recovery if surgery becomes necessary.
While not all cases are preventable, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk:
By maintaining good foot health and taking early action when symptoms arise, you can reduce your chances of developing a neuroma or prevent it from worsening.
Morton’s neuroma doesn’t have to interfere with your quality of life. Whether you’re in the early stages of foot discomfort or dealing with long-term pain in the ball of your foot, our team at Bluebonnet Foot and Ankle Institute in Austin is here to help.
We take a personalized, comprehensive approach to treat Morton’s neuroma and other common foot injuries, offering everything from conservative therapies to expert surgical treatment when needed. Schedule an appointment today and take the first step toward healthier, pain-free feet.
Medically reviewed by Liza Chabokrow, DPM
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