Burning, tingling, or a “pebble in the shoe” feeling in the ball of your foot? This quick-read guide answers the most common questions about Morton’s neuroma — short, sharp, and helpful.
Morton’s Neuroma — 20 Quick Q & A’s
Educational info only. Not a diagnosis or a substitute for medical care.
Q: How is Morton’s neuroma different from plain metatarsalgia?
A: Metatarsalgia is a general term for forefoot pain. Morton’s neuroma is irritation and thickening of a small nerve between the toes (most often 3rd–4th), causing burning, tingling, or a pebble-underfoot feeling.
Q: Which toe space is usually affected?
A: Most commonly the space between the 3rd and 4th toes; the 2nd–3rd space can be involved, and some people have more than one site.
Q: What early signs should I watch for?
A: Intermittent tingling or numbness in the toes, heat or burning under the ball of the foot, or the feeling of a bunched sock or tiny stone—often worse in snug shoes.
Q: Is there a simple self-check I can try?
A: Gently squeeze the forefoot side-to-side while pressing the ball of the foot. A sharp zing or click that reproduces your pain suggests a neuroma—then book a professional review (don’t keep provoking it).
Q: Why does toe-box shape matter so much?
A: Tapered, pointy fronts squeeze the metatarsal heads and pinch the interdigital nerve. A broad, foot-shaped toe box lets the forefoot spread and reduces compression.
Q: Do heel height and heel-to-toe drop affect symptoms?
A: Yes. Higher heels or larger drops shift body weight onto the ball of the foot. Lower drops generally reduce pressure—transition gradually to avoid calf or Achilles irritation.
Q: Are rocker soles actually helpful?
A: Often. A mild forefoot rocker helps you roll through stance with less push-off, easing stress across the neuroma area. Look for cushioning plus a gentle rocker rather than very rigid soles.
Q: Any lacing tweaks to reduce forefoot pressure?
A: Try a “metatarsal window”: skip the eyelets over the sore spot so laces don’t press on it. Loosen the forefoot slightly and use the top eyelets to lock the heel.
Q: Where should a metatarsal pad sit for best relief?
A: Just behind (proximal to) the metatarsal heads, not directly under them. That position spreads the metatarsals and unloads the nerve.
Q: Do toe spacers help or make things worse?
A: Soft, low-profile spacers can reduce toe crowding for some people. If they rub, alter gait, or increase pain, stop and prioritise roomier footwear.
Q: What sock features should I choose?
A: Seamless or flat-toe socks with light forefoot padding and moisture-managing yarns. Avoid thick bunching or tight bands over the metatarsal area.
Q: Which activities are kinder during a flare-up?
A: Lower-impact options like cycling, swimming, or elliptical. If walking, keep terrain level, reduce distance temporarily, and wear supportive, cushioned shoes.
Q: Can swelling or weight fluctuations worsen symptoms?
A: Yes. Swelling narrows the space around the nerve. Elevation after long days, steady hydration, and gentle calf or foot mobility can help.
Q: How quickly can footwear and pads make a difference?
A: Some feel relief within days; many need 1–3 weeks of consistent wear. If pain persists despite sensible changes, seek a professional assessment.
Q: Do steroid or alcohol injections cure Morton’s neuroma?
A: They may reduce pain and inflammation—sometimes substantially—but effects vary and can be temporary. They are medical options considered after conservative measures.
Q: Is surgery a guaranteed fix?
A: No. Surgery can help selected cases that fail conservative care, but it carries risks such as numbness in the affected toes and scar sensitivity. It is usually a later option.
Q: When should I see a clinician?
A: If pain limits walking, persists beyond 2–4 weeks despite shoe changes and pads, or you notice spreading numbness or weakness, book with a podiatrist or foot/ankle clinician.
Q: Can symptoms return once they’ve settled?
A: They can if you return to narrow, hard, or high-heeled shoes or increase impact too quickly. Keep the wide toe box, adequate cushioning, and gradual training progressions.
Q: Any home care beyond footwear changes?
A: Relative rest from aggravating activity, brief ice massage to the forefoot (protect the skin), gentle mobility work, and appropriate over-the-counter pain relief if suitable for you.
Q: What should I look for in sandals?
A: Supportive sole with slight rocker, adjustable straps for swelling, a secure heel strap, and avoid toe posts, which can irritate the interdigital nerve.
👣 Need Help Choosing the Right Shoes?
With footwear manufacturers becoming more aware of just how common foot ailments actually are, and rising to the challenges, explore our guide tailored to forefoot comfort and roomy toe boxes:
- 👉 Best Shoes for Morton’s Neuroma »
- Morton’s neuroma = nerve irritation/compression in the forefoot. NHS.
- Wide shoes, met pads, orthotics, and activity tweaks are first‑line.
- Injections can help stubborn cases; surgery is a last resort but effective.
- Early offloading prevents chronic pain and speeds recovery.