Morton's neuroma surgery

Need to know

• What happens during surgery for Morton's neuroma? icon plus

  A small cut is made on the top or bottom of your foot so your surgeon can access the affected nerve. They will then either increase the space around the nerve by removing some of the surrounding tissue or removing part of the nerve. In the latter, the area between your toes will be permanently numb.
  
  The surgery can be carried out using a general anaesthetic so you will be asleep, or local anaesthetic, where you will be awake but with your toe area numbed.

• How to prepare for surgery icon plus

  Your consultant will tell you how best to prepare for your surgery. If you're having general anaesthetic, your consultant will let you know how long you should avoid eating or drinking before your procedure.

• After surgery icon plus

  This procedure us usually undertaken as a daycase, so are unlikely to stay overnight in hospital. You'll be given painkillers to tackle any pain immediately following the surgery. You can usually walk soon after the operation but it will take several weeks or even months to make a full recovery.

  Your consultant will let you know when you can get back to your usual routine, including exercise and work. You'll need to wear a protective slipper until the affected area has healed enough to wear normal shoes.