When your toes are squeezed together, often over a period of months or even years, the nerve that runs between the toes can swell and get thicker. This is called a Morton's neuroma. It may feel like a small lump is pushing inside the ball of your foot. When you walk or move your toes, you feel pain that sometimes moves into your toes. If the pressure continues, it may damage the nerve.
The nerve swelling may go away with a change of shoes if you catch the condition early. Your doctor may advise you to wear wide-toed shoes. He or she also may suggest that you ice the sore spot and limit activities that put pressure on the nerve. If these steps do not relieve your symptoms, your doctor may have you use special pads or devices that spread the toes to keep them from squeezing the nerve. In some cases, a doctor may give a cortisone shot to reduce swelling and pain. If these treatments do not help, your doctor may suggest surgery to relieve pressure or remove the swollen nerve.
Follow-up care is a key part of your treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and call your doctor or nurse call line if you are having problems. It's also a good idea to know your test results and keep a list of the medicines you take.
Watch closely for changes in your health, and be sure to contact your doctor or nurse call line if:
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Current as of:
May 27, 2016
Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine
& Gavin W.G. Chalmers, DPM - Podiatry and Podiatric Surgery
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