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Definition
By Mayo Clinic staff
Morton's neuroma is a painful condition that affects the ball of your foot, most commonly the area between your third and fourth toes. Morton's neuroma may feel as if you are standing on a pebble in your shoe or on a fold in your sock.
Morton's neuroma involves a thickening of the tissue around one of the nerves leading to your toes. In some cases, Morton's neuroma causes a sharp, burning pain in the ball of your foot. Your toes also may sting, burn or feel numb.
Morton's neuroma may occur in response to irritation, injury or pressure. Common treatments for Morton's neuroma include changing footwear or using arch supports. Sometimes corticosteroid injections or surgery may be necessary.
- Thomas JL, et al. Diagnosis and treatment of forefoot disorders: Morton's intermetatarsal neuroma. Journal of Foot and Ankle Surgery. 2009;48:251.
- Callahan LR, et al. Overview of running injuries in the lower extremity. http://www.uptodate.com/home/index.html. Accessed Aug. 4, 2010.
- Neuromas. American Podiatric Medical Association. http://www.apma.org/MainMenu/Foot-Health/Foot-Health-Brochures-category/Learn-About-Your-Feet/Neuromas.aspx. Accessed Aug. 4, 2010.
- Morton's neuroma. American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons. http://www.footphysicians.com/footankleinfo/mortons-neuroma.htm. Accessed Aug. 5; 2010.
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