Morton's Neuroma

Morton’s neuroma can feel like a hot or sharp pain in the ball of your foot or between your toes, making walking, running, or even standing uncomfortable. To prevent symptoms from worsening, reach out to board-certified podiatrist Gaston Liu, DPM. With the right care, most people find significant relief from the pain, so don’t hesitate to book your consultation at Gaston Mike Liu LLC via the website or by calling the office in Commack, New York, today.

What is Morton’s neuroma?

Morton’s neuroma occurs when the nerve running between the toes, most often between the third and fourth toes, becomes swollen or irritated. This usually happens when the tissue surrounding it thickens due to compression. 

Over time, this thickened tissue presses on the nerve, sending pain and other uncomfortable sensations through the ball of your foot.

You’re more likely to experience this if you wear tight or narrow shoes (particularly high heels), perform repetitive activities like running, or have flat feet or high arches.

What does Morton’s neuroma feel like?

People often describe Morton’s neuroma as feeling like there’s a pebble stuck in their shoe or like they’re standing on a fold in their sock. The discomfort typically starts in the ball of the foot and then spreads outward toward the toes.

Common symptoms include:

• Searing pain in the ball of the foot
• Numbness or tingling in the toes
• Sharp or shooting pain that worsens when walking
• A sensation of pressure or fullness between the toes

The pain may come and go at first, especially during activities that put pressure on the front of the foot. Wearing tight shoes or high heels often worsens symptoms, and you may find temporary relief by removing your shoes and massaging the affected foot.

How is Morton’s neuroma treated?

Dr. Liu usually begins with conservative, nonsurgical options, and your symptoms may improve without needing surgery.

He may recommend:

Changing your go-to footwear

Getting used to shoes with a wider toe box and lower heels reduces pressure on the nerve.

Custom orthotics

Shoe inserts can redistribute your weight and relieve pressure on the affected area.

Padding or metatarsal pads

These help lift and separate the bones in the forefoot, easing nerve irritation.

Activity modifications

Scaling back on high-impact activities that aggravate the condition eases irritation.

Anti-inflammatory treatments

These may include medications or targeted injections to reduce swelling and pain.

If conservative treatments don’t provide enough relief, Dr. Liu can discuss minimally invasive procedures to release the pressure on the nerve or remove the affected tissue.

Persistent forefoot pain shouldn’t be ignored. Early evaluation and treatment can prevent symptoms from worsening and help you return to comfortable movement sooner.

Schedule an evaluation at Gaston Mike Liu LLC by calling the office or requesting one online today.