Morton's Neuroma

Morton's Neuroma is an injury to the nerve between the toes, which causes thickening of the nerve and pain. It commonly affects the nerve that travels between the third and fourth toes. It is due to a swollen or thickened nerve in the ball of the foot that causes inflammation and pain. It is usually caused when the toes are squeezed together for too long. The nerve that runs between the toes can swell and get thicker and can make it painful when walking on that foot. High-heeled, tight, or narrow shoes can make the pain worse.

Cause or Possible Risk Factors

• Morton's neuroma seems to occur in response to irritation, pressure or injury to one of the nerves that lead to the toes
• Compression of the nerve of sensation between the ends of the metatarsal bones at the base of the toes
• Abnormal positioning of toes
• Flat feet
• Forefoot problems, including bunions and hammer toes
• High foot arches
• Use of tight shoes and high heels

Symptoms

• Burning pain in the ball of the foot that may radiate into the toes. The pain generally intensifies with activity or wearing shoes. Night pain is rare
• There may also be numbness in the toes or an unpleasant feeling in the toes such as a feeling as if you are standing on a pebble in your shoe
• Pain on weight bearing

For more information on the conditions we treat and services we offer, or to book an appointment please call us on 416 489 5313 (Finch) / 416 604 4404 (Jane) or email us at info@physiowell.ca.