Morton’s neuroma

With Morton’s neuroma (also Morton’s neuralgia) a toe nerve becomes trapped between two metatarsal heads and thickens. The most common site is between the 3rd and 4th toes.

Typical complaints

• sharp, burning or electric pain in the forefoot radiating into the toes
• numbness between two toes
• feeling of walking “on a pebble” or a fold in the sock
• relief when the shoe is taken off and the forefoot massaged

Causes and treatment

It is promoted by tight shoes, high heels and a splayfoot. The diagnosis is made by a doctor, often with ultrasound. Wide shoes with a flat heel and insoles with a metatarsal pad relieve the nerve. In our practice we look out for pressure points in the forefoot and advise on suitable footwear.