Morton's Neuroma Explained

In brief: Morton's neuroma is a thickening of tissue around a nerve between the toes, most often between the third and fourth toes. It causes a burning or sharp pain in the ball of the foot, numbness or tingling in the toes, and the classic sensation of a pebble or fold in the sock underfoot. Tight, narrow footwear and repeated forefoot pressure are common contributors. Many cases improve with wider shoes, padding and reducing pressure on the forefoot.

What is Morton's neuroma?

Morton's neuroma is a benign thickening of the tissue surrounding one of the nerves that run between the toes, most commonly the nerve between the third and fourth toes. The thickened tissue irritates and compresses the nerve, producing pain and altered sensation. It is more common in runners and active people because of the repeated pressure and movement through the forefoot.

What causes it in runners?

Tight, narrow or pointed footwear that squeezes the front of the foot is a leading contributor, as it compresses the nerve. High-impact, repetitive forefoot loading from running adds to the irritation, and foot shapes that crowd the toes can predispose to it. Anything that increases pressure between the metatarsal heads tends to aggravate the nerve.

Symptoms to recognise

Typical symptoms are a burning or sharp pain in the ball of the foot, often radiating into the toes, together with numbness, tingling or the distinctive feeling of standing on a pebble or a bunched sock. Symptoms often worsen in tight shoes and during activity, and may ease when the shoe is removed and the foot is massaged. There is usually no visible lump.

Treatment and recovery

First-line management focuses on reducing pressure on the nerve, primarily by switching to wider shoes with a roomy toe box and lower heels, and using metatarsal pads to spread the bones slightly. Reducing aggravating activity and the repetitive forefoot loading helps settle symptoms. If conservative measures are not enough, a clinician may consider injections or, occasionally, surgery. Persistent or worsening symptoms should be medically assessed.

Morton's Neuroma and your running kit at OD's

Wide-fitting shoes with a generous toe box that avoid squeezing the forefoot are central to managing Morton's neuroma. At OD's Designer Clothing we stock premium running footwear from On, Saucony and Salomon, and our St Helens team can help you find a roomier fit. We offer next-day delivery and free click and collect.

Please note: This guide is general information for runners, not medical advice. If you have pain that is severe, persistent or getting worse, see a GP, physiotherapist or qualified sports clinician for diagnosis and treatment.