Morton Neuroma: Forefoot Pain, Numbness and Treatment

Morton neuroma is not cancer. It is thickening and irritation around an interdigital nerve, often between the third and fourth toes. Narrow footwear and repeated forefoot loading may aggravate symptoms.

1. Burning pain in the ball of the foot

2. A pebble-in-the-shoe sensation

3. Toe tingling or numbness

4. Pain with narrow shoes or forefoot push-off

Metatarsal stress injury, joint, tendon and other nerve disorders can mimic it. Assessment localises symptoms and reviews footwear and load; imaging may be recommended when needed.

1. Use a wider toe box and reduce direct compression

2. Temporarily adjust running and prolonged standing

3. Restore relevant foot and ankle movement

4. Progress foot and calf strength and activity tolerance

Adjunct modalities do not replace assessment, exercise, graded loading or outcome review.

Marked swelling, recent trauma, focal bone pain or increasing sensory loss needs medical assessment and possible imaging.

If symptoms affect walking or sport, book an individual assessment at PhysioTech in Zahraa El Maadi.

No. It is thickened irritated tissue around a nerve, not malignancy.

Yes. A wider toe box and less forefoot compression may help suitable cases.

Note: Educational content only; it does not replace diagnosis.