What Causes Morton's Neuroma and How It Is Treated
- Dr. Chandana Halaharvi
- Apr 21
- 3 min read
Updated: Apr 24
Common Causes of Morton's neuroma
Morton's neuroma is a condition that affects the ball of the foot, typically between the third and fourth toes. It is not a tumor but a painful thickening of tissue surrounding one of the nerves leading to the toes.
The condition develops when a nerve in the foot is repeatedly compressed or irritated. Over time, the nerve and surrounding tissues thicken and become inflamed, leading to increasing pain with activity.
Footwear is one of the primary contributors. Shoes with a narrow toe box force the toes together and compress the nerves. High heels compound this by shifting body weight onto the ball of the foot. Women develop Morton's neuroma significantly more often than men.
Certain foot structural abnormalities increase the risk. High arches, flat feet, bunions, and hammertoes all alter weight distribution across the foot, placing excess pressure on the nerves.
Activities that place repetitive stress on the forefoot also play a role. Running, court sports, and activities requiring frequent crouching increase impact on the ball of the foot.
Signs and Symptoms to Watch For
The symptoms are distinctive. Patients describe a burning, sharp, or shooting pain that radiates into the toes. Some experience numbness or tingling. A common description is feeling like standing on a pebble in your shoe.
Symptoms are typically triggered by activity and often improve with rest and removing footwear. Over time, the condition can progress to the point where pain is present even at rest.
Whether you live in Sugar Land, Pearland, or anywhere in the greater Houston area, Thrive Foot and Ankle is here to help. Dr. Chandana Halaharvi specializes in Morton's neuroma and takes a personalized approach to every patient's care.
Diagnosis is primarily clinical. A podiatrist can usually identify Morton's neuroma through a thorough physical examination. Ultrasound or MRI may be used to confirm the diagnosis.
Conservative treatment includes switching to shoes with a wide toe box and low heels, custom orthotics or metatarsal pads, and anti-inflammatory medications.
Corticosteroid injections are commonly used when conservative measures provide insufficient relief. An injection can significantly reduce inflammation and pain, often providing months of relief.
Treatment Options at Thrive Foot and Ankle
Sclerosing alcohol injections are another minimally invasive option. A dilute alcohol solution is injected over several sessions to gradually destroy the nerve tissue causing the pain.
Surgical removal of the affected nerve is considered when other treatments have not provided adequate relief. The procedure resolves pain in the majority of patients.
Early treatment generally produces better outcomes. If you are experiencing burning pain or unusual sensations in the ball of your foot, a professional evaluation is the best course of action.
About the Author
Dr. Chandana Halaharvi, DPM, is a double board-certified foot and ankle surgeon and the founder of Thrive Foot and Ankle in Pearland, TX. Her expert insights have been featured in EatingWell. She treats patients from across the greater Houston area, including Pearland, Sugar Land, Friendswood, League City, Missouri City, and surrounding communities.
At Thrive Foot and Ankle, we offer a full range of treatment options for Morton's neuroma, from conservative care to advanced procedures. Book an appointment online to find relief.
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