Morton's neuroma

Overview

Squeezing the toes together irritates the nerve.

Symptoms

Common signs:

• Burning pain in the ball of the foot
• Burning or pebble-like pain in the ball of the foot

Less common

• Toe numbness

Look up a symptom: Burning or pebble-like pain in the ball of the foot · Foot pain

When to get medical care

Causes

Nerve pressure.

Does it spread or run in families?

• It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.

Who is more likely to get it

• Women
• High heels

Diagnosis

A clinician examines the foot.

Questions you may be asked

• Shoes

The exam

Squeezing the foot.

Tests

Tests, if needed:

• Ultrasound:

Treatment

Give your toes room.

Self-care

• Wear wide, low-heeled shoes
• Use metatarsal pads
• Massage and ice

Medicines

Medicines that may help:

OwieClear doesn't give doses: follow the label or your healthcare professional. Medicine names here are examples, not a full list.

Steroid shots or surgery for some.

Prevention

To prevent it:

• Roomy shoes

Which doctor treats this

• Start with your primary care provider (family doctor or internist).
• They may send you to a podiatrist (foot doctor).

Back to school, work, or sports

• Most people keep up normal school and work. Rest when you need to.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

• If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
• Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
• Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
• Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.

Outlook

Usually improves.

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Morton's neuroma