Morton’s neuroma is a condition that affects the ball of the foot. Irritation or compression can cause the tissues surrounding the nerves leading to the toes to thicken, resulting in sharp, burning pain. This common condition often develops in individuals who wear high heels or tight footwear regularly, as well as runners and those involved in high-impact activities that place repetitive stress on the feet. Left untreated, symptoms can worsen over time and lead to chronic discomfort. If you’re experiencing persistent foot pain, our orthopedic specialists at OrthoGeorgia are here to help. Our foot and ankle team provides expert diagnosis and personalized treatment plans for Morton’s neuroma at several clinic locations throughout Central GA. From conservative care such as orthotics, physical therapy, and steroid injections to more advanced surgical options, OrthoGeorgia is committed to helping you overcome pain and get back to doing what you love. Learn more about the care we provide for Morton’s neuroma below.
What are the Symptoms of Morton’s Neuroma?
Morton’s neuroma commonly affects the nerves between the third and fourth toes. As the nerves become compressed, patients may experience a wide range of uncomfortable symptoms that start gradually and worsen over time. If left untreated, Morton’s neuroma can lead to chronic nerve damage and long-term pain, potentially affecting your ability to walk and remain active. Recognizing the signs early and seeking comprehensive foot and ankle care are key to preventing the condition from worsening. Common symptoms of Morton’s neuroma include:
Sharp, burning pain in the ball of the foot, often between the third and fourth toes
A sensation of standing on a pebble or having a fold in your sock
Tingling or numbness in the affected toes
Toe cramping or a feeling of the toes “spreading apart”
Relief when removing shoes or massaging the foot
How is Morton’s Neuroma Diagnosed?
At OrthoGeorgia, diagnosing Morton’s neuroma begins with a focused evaluation by one of our foot and ankle specialists. Because this condition shares symptoms with other foot problems, an accurate diagnosis is essential for effective treatment. After taking the time to learn about your medical history, past injuries, and anything else that may be affecting your orthopedic health, your provider will examine your foot, looking for tenderness between the toes and checking for symptoms when pressure is applied. To confirm the diagnosis and rule out other issues, we may use one or more of the following methods:
Physical examination with Mulder’s click: A squeezing maneuver of the foot may reproduce pain or create a clicking sensation, both signs of a neuroma.
Weight-bearing X-rays: These are used to exclude other causes of foot pain. Though neuromas don’t show up on X-rays, OrthoGeorgia provides in-house digital X-ray services at every location to reach an accurate diagnosis.
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI): Used selectively when the diagnosis remains uncertain or surgical treatment is being considered. This advanced imaging test helps rule out other pathologies in the vicinity of the nerves or bones.
Treatment for Morton’s Neuroma at OrthoGeorgia
Treatment for Morton’s neuroma depends on the severity of your symptoms and how long the condition has been present. At OrthoGeorgia, we offer both nonsurgical and surgical treatment options tailored to each patient’s needs. Our foot and ankle specialists work closely with each patient, getting to know them and their recovery goals in order to determine the best next steps for their care. We believe that patient education is a key part of a successful outcome. The members of your care team will maintain consistent communication with you every step of the way, explaining your diagnosis, walking you through your treatment options, and answering any questions you have.
Nonsurgical Treatment for Morton’s Neuroma
Most cases of Morton’s neuroma can be effectively managed with nonsurgical treatments. At OrthoGeorgia, our specialists focus first on conservative methods to relieve pressure on the affected nerve, reduce inflammation, and improve your foot mechanics. These approaches aim to eliminate pain and restore your mobility without the need for surgery. Nonsurgical treatment options for Morton’s neuroma include:
Footwear modifications: Switching to shoes with a wide toe box, cushioned soles, and low heels can reduce pressure on the forefoot and help relieve nerve irritation.
Icing: Applying ice to the affected area several times a day can help manage swelling and discomfort.
Physical therapy: Stretching and strengthening exercises can improve foot mechanics and reduce stress on the nerve. Your specialist may also recommend manual therapy or other therapeutic techniques.
Steroid injections: Steroid injections are helpful in obtaining symptomatic relief.
The majority of patients with Morton’s neuroma respond well to these nonsurgical treatments. If conservative care does not provide sufficient relief, surgical options may be considered. No matter the approach, you can count on OrthoGeorgia to guide your care with expertise and compassion.
Will I Need Surgery for Morton’s Neuroma?
While most patients with Morton’s neuroma experience significant relief through nonsurgical treatments, surgery may be necessary if symptoms persist or worsen despite care. If your pain continues to interfere with walking, standing, or other daily activities, your OrthoGeorgia specialist may recommend a surgical solution to address your symptoms.
Neurectomy: The most common procedure for Morton’s neuroma, in which the thickened portion of the nerve is removed to relieve pressure and eliminate pain.
These procedures are performed at OrthoGeorgia’s state-of-the-art surgical centers in Macon. After surgery, you may need to wear a boot and limit activity for a short period, followed by physical therapy to support recovery. Your care team will provide detailed preparation and recovery instructions and ensure that any concerns you have are addressed.
Other Foot and Ankle Conditions We Treat at OrthoGeorgia
We are proud to provide dedicated care for a wide range of foot and ankle conditions in Central GA. Our specialists help patients of all ages return to the activities they love, whether that means walking without pain, resuming sports, or simply improving daily comfort. From minor foot pain to complex injuries, OrthoGeorgia offers advanced diagnostics, personalized treatment plans, and both nonsurgical and surgical care options tailored to your needs. In addition to Morton’s neuroma, our foot and ankle specialists treat a wide range of conditions throughout Central Georgia, including:
Macon
