Morton’s neuralgia is a condition in which a nerve in the forefoot is compressed or irritated. This nerve runs between the metatarsal bones.

If pressure or strain is placed on the nerve over a prolonged period, the tissue surrounding the nerve may thicken. We call this a Morton’s neuroma. This thickening causes the nerve to become irritated more easily and increases the pressure on the nerve whilst walking or standing. This can lead to symptoms such as pain, a burning sensation, tingling or the feeling that there is something in the shoe.

There is usually not just one clear cause. Often, the symptom arises from a combination of causes.

Possible causes include:

narrow or too-small shoes;
high heels;
a lot of pressure on the forefoot;
an abnormal foot position;
a thinner pad of fat under the forefoot;
doing a lot of sport or walking;
osteoarthritis or rheumatism.

The symptoms often occur whilst walking, standing for long periods or wearing tight shoes.

You may notice that:

the pain feels sharp, stabbing or burning;
the pain is located between the metatarsals;
the pain radiates to the toes;
the toes tingle or feel numb;
tight shoes make the symptoms worse;
taking your shoes off provides temporary relief;
taking it off whilst walking or exercising is painful.

A healthy lifestyle can help to reduce the strain on the forefoot. Getting enough exercise remains important, but the level of exertion must be appropriate for what your foot can cope with.

Well-fitting shoes with enough room for the toes are important. A good balance between walking, standing and resting can also help to reduce irritation of the nerve. A healthy body weight can reduce the pressure on the forefoot.

Painful nerve symptoms can have a significant impact on your confidence when walking. Relaxation, a gradual increase in activity levels and a good balance between exertion and recovery help you to manage these symptoms more effectively.

Our lifestyle coaches en occupational therapists can provide support if pain affects movement, work or daily activities.

The most important thing is to reduce the pressure on the forefoot.

You can:

wear shoes with enough room at the toes;
avoid narrow shoes and high heels;
temporarily restricting standing or walking for long periods;
adjust your activities if the pain increases;
Do not walk for too long with a numb sensation in your foot;
Seek advice if the pain keeps coming back.

Our podiatrists We examine the pressure distribution under the forefoot and the position of your feet. We also look at your shoes.

Treatment may consist of:

podiatry insoles to reduce pressure around the nerve;
a toe orthosis if the position of the toes is causing problems;
temporary pressure relief with felt;
taping;
shoe advice;
referral to a GP in the event of persistent symptoms or when further treatment is required.

Together, we’ll look at what suits you best and what will help to relieve the pressure on the nerve.

Good shoes are important for Morton’s neuralgia. The right shoes can help to reduce the pressure on the nerve.

If you have Morton’s neuralgia, it is important to bear this in mind when buying shoes. Please note the following:

Choose a shoe with sufficient length and width. A shoe that is too narrow may continue to irritate the nerve;
Buy shoes in the afternoon. Your feet may swell slightly during the day. That way, you’ll be better able to tell if the shoes fit properly;
Pay attention to the flex point of the shoe. Choose a shoe that does not bend too much at the forefoot. This can help to reduce pressure on the nerve;
Choose a shoe that provides plenty of support at the ball of the foot. This prevents excessive movement in the midfoot.

Rondom Shoes

Good shoes can prevent many ailments. At Rondom Shoes We’ll help you choose shoes that suit your feet and your everyday life. This will help you reduce any discomfort and prevent new problems as far as possible.

At Rondom Schoenen, we use our knowledge and experience to put together a suitable range of shoes. In doing so, we take into account different foot shapes, needs and styles. We ensure there is a sufficient choice of good-quality shoes, across various price ranges.

Rondom Schoenen also has a knowledge base! Here you will find tips and information to help you choose the right shoes.

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Pinched nerve in the foot (Morton’s neuralgia)

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