Morton’s Neuroma Treatment in Alexandria, VA
If it feels like you’re walking on a pebble or you notice burning and tingling between your toes, you may have Morton’s neuroma. At Landmark Foot & Ankle Center in Alexandria, VA , our podiatrists offer a full range of treatments, from footwear changes and injections to minimally invasive nerve surgery, to relieve your pain.
Book OnlineWhat Is Morton’s Neuroma?
Morton’s neuroma is a thickening of the tissue around a nerve that leads to the toes, most commonly between the third and fourth toes. Repeated compression and irritation of the nerve cause it to enlarge, producing pain in the ball of the foot that often worsens with activity and tight shoes.
Symptoms of Morton’s Neuroma
- A feeling of standing on a pebble or a folded sock
- Burning pain in the ball of the foot that may radiate to the toes
- Tingling or numbness in the toes
- Pain that improves when you remove your shoes and massage your foot
- Symptoms that worsen in high heels or narrow shoes
What Causes Morton’s Neuroma?
Common contributors include high heels and tight, narrow shoes, high-impact activities such as running and court sports, and foot deformities like bunions, hammertoes, flat feet, and high arches. These factors increase pressure on the nerve as it passes between the metatarsal bones.
How Is Morton’s Neuroma Diagnosed?
Your podiatrist examines your foot, presses on the space between the toes to reproduce symptoms, and may order imaging such as ultrasound or X-rays to rule out stress fractures and other causes of foot pain. Because neuroma symptoms can overlap with peripheral neuropathy, an accurate diagnosis is key.
Morton’s Neuroma Treatment Options
Conservative treatment is effective for many patients and may include:
- Wider shoes with a roomy toe box and lower heels
- Metatarsal pads and custom orthotics to offload the nerve
- Activity modification and icing
- Anti-inflammatory medication or corticosteroid injections
- Regenerative options such as Liposana Fatpad Restoration to restore cushioning in the ball of the foot
If symptoms persist, surgery to release or remove the affected nerve may be recommended. Dr. Victoria Nolte has advanced training in peripheral nerve surgery, and our surgeons use minimally invasive techniques whenever possible. Learn more about Dr. Nolte and Dr. Garrett.
Morton’s Neuroma FAQs
Can Morton’s neuroma go away on its own?
Symptoms may improve with footwear changes and padding, especially when caught early, but the thickened nerve usually doesn’t disappear without treatment.
What shoes help Morton’s neuroma?
Shoes with a wide toe box, low heel, and good cushioning reduce pressure on the nerve. Metatarsal pads and custom orthotics can provide additional relief.
Are injections effective for Morton’s neuroma?
Corticosteroid injections can reduce inflammation and pain for many patients, often helping them avoid or delay surgery.
When is surgery needed for Morton’s neuroma?
Surgery is considered when pain continues despite footwear changes, orthotics, and injections. Options include releasing the tissue around the nerve or removing the neuroma.
Is Morton’s neuroma the same as neuropathy?
No. Morton’s neuroma is a localized nerve thickening between the toes, while peripheral neuropathy is nerve damage that typically affects the feet more broadly.
Can Liposana help Morton’s neuroma?
Liposana Fatpad Restoration can restore cushioning in the ball of the foot and may help some patients with Morton’s neuroma. Your podiatrist will determine whether you are a candidate.
How long is recovery after neuroma surgery?
Many patients return to supportive shoes within a few weeks, with full recovery over several weeks to a few months depending on the procedure.
Stop Walking on That Pebble
Get relief from burning, tingling forefoot pain. Call (703) 370-2313 or request an appointment online with Landmark Foot & Ankle Center in Alexandria, VA .
