- Orthopaedic & Neurosurgery Specialists PC (ONS)

Morton's neuroma is a thickening of the tissue that surrounds the nerve leading to the toes. This thickening, or neuroma, causes the nerve to be pinched which may create a burning pain that radiates between the third and fourth toes.

Sometimes a neuroma is a result of wearing tight shoes that squeeze the foot bones together. Wearing high-heeled shoes that are tight or fit poorly can compress the toe bones and pinch the nerve. High impact athletes, such as runners, may also be prone to Morton’s neuroma due to the way they push off from the starting block on the balls of the feet. Morton's neuroma may also be caused by other foot conditions such as bunions, hammertoes or flat feet. Sometimes, there is no apparent cause of the pressure or irritation.

Treatment usually begins with conservative methods such as wearing non-constricting shoes and taking non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications. A pad may be used on the sole of the foot to spread the bones. If symptoms persist, an injection of cortisone may be given to reduce swelling around the nerve.

Illustration reproduced with permission from Fischer S, (interim ed): Your Orthopaedic Connection. Rosemont, IL, American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. Available at http://orthoinfo.aaos.org.org/.