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Morton's neuroma
MORTON'S METATARSALGIA
If you experience Morton's neuroma or foot problems, our orthopaedic experts can help to diagnose and treat you
About Morton's neuroma
Morton’s neuroma is a foot condition which can cause severe pain as the nerves between your toes become irritated and thickened.
Middle-aged women can be particularly affected as a result of wearing high-heeled shoes. Runners are also prone to this injury.
Our orthopaedic foot and ankle consultants can help your rehabilitation with a range of treatment options.
Need to know
Some of the symptoms of Morton's neuroma may include:
- tingling sensation in your toes that worsens over time
- eventually, this may lead to a burning or shooting pain in the ball of your foot
- pain in your toes and foot when walking and/or running
Your consultant will discuss your symptoms with you to help make a diagnosis. Specific things they may look for include:
- if you experience pain when they press between the third and fourth toes
- a strange clicking feeling between the bones of your foot, an X-ray will be able to rule out other injuries that relate to broken bones
- ultrasound images of soft foot and toe tissues can help to identify neuromas
Your consultant will discuss your treatment options with you and help to determine the best approach.
Non-surgical treatments
- orthotic devices such as soft pads to place in your footwear
- painkillers or steroid injections to ease severe discomfort
In some special cases, your consultant may recommend surgery. To access the nerve, your surgeon will make a small incision at the top or bottom of your foot. This is carried out under local or general anaesthetic. They can then remove tissue parts to increase space around the nerve. Alternatively, they may remove the nerve completely. This will create permanent numbness around your toes.
Patient stories
Yvette's story: From back pain to hip replacement surgery
Yvette (54) a journalist from Kent, started experiencing pain in her hip seven years ago in 2015. An ex-national gymnast who had been incredibly active and flexible her whole life, Yvette felt concerned about the growing discomfort impacting her quality of life, and so sought help from her GP.
A new hip and straight back into the spin of things
David’s gym video shows him repeatedly pushing up to 100kg on a single leg press – not particularly unusual for this keen cyclist, former competitive squash player and all-round fitness enthusiast. What is unusual is that 52-year-old David had hip surgery just 12 weeks earlier.
Michael's MAKO hip surgery to treat his arthritis
73 year-old Michael, an avid walker and charity worker, was diagnosed with arthritis in January 2021. After facing long waiting times and increasing pain that was becoming more frequent, he started to look elsewhere for treatment.
This content is intended for general information only and does not replace the need for personal advice from a qualified health professional.