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What Is Morton’s Neuroma?

Morton’s neuroma is a painful thickening of the nerve between the toes — most commonly between the 3rd and 4th toes. As the nerve becomes irritated, it causes burning pain, numbness, and the feeling of a small rock or marble under the foot.

Neuromas often worsen without treatment, especially if you’re active or wear tight shoes.

Common Symptoms

• Burning pain in the ball of the foot

• Numbness or tingling in the toes

• Feeling like you’re “walking on a pebble”

• Pain that worsens in tight shoes

• Sharp or electric pain between the toes

• Forefoot swelling or pressure sensitivity

Why Morton’s Neuroma Happens

Neuromas develop due to:

• Tight or narrow shoes

• High heels

• Flat feet or high arches

• Repetitive forefoot pressure

• Sports that involve running or jumping

• Toe deformities like Hammertoes

Over time, the nerve becomes compressed and inflamed, leading to chronic pain.

When Morton’s Neuroma Becomes a Problem

You should be seen if you experience:

• Daily forefoot pain

• Burning or numbness in the toes

• Pain that worsens with activity

• Difficulty wearing normal shoes

• A persistent “pebble” sensation

• Pain that interferes with work or exercise

If your forefoot pain is accompanied by arch collapse, it may be related to Adult Flatfoot or PTTD.

Treatment Options

At Orthopedic Foot & Ankle Institute, we offer:

• Custom Orthotics

• Shoe modifications

• Anti‑inflammatory treatments

• Shockwave therapy

• Padding and offloading

• Corticosteroid injections

• Alcohol sclerosing injections for chronic neuromas

For advanced cases, learn more about surgical options on our Reconstructive Surgery page.

Do Neuromas Require Surgery?

Not always. Many patients improve with conservative care. However, surgery may be recommended if:

• Pain persists despite treatment

• The nerve is severely thickened

• Daily activities are limited

• Shoe wear becomes difficult

Dr. Sibel offers minimally invasive neuroma excision techniques designed for long‑term relief.

Schedule an Appointment

Call Our Office at 702.997.9833

Author

Roman Sibel, MD Dr. Roman Sibel, MD is an orthopedic surgeon practicing at Orthopedic Foot & Ankle Institute in Henderson, Nevada. Dr. Sibel specializes in a variety of cutting-edge foot and ankle treatments, including reconstructive surgery, sports medicine, trauma surgery, diabetic care, and laser treatments for removing nail fungus. Dr. Sibel retains active affiliations with numerous Las Vegas hospitals, including Southern Hills Hospital and Medical Center, and St. Rose Dominican Hospital’s multiple campuses throughout Nevada. He also works with several local surgical centers, such as Parkway Surgery Center, Sunset Ridge Surgery Center, and Coronado Surgery Center. Graduating from Pennsylvania State University in University Park, Pennsylvania, Dr. Sibel went on to earn his medical degree from MCP-Hahnemann School of Medicine in Philadelphia. He completed both his internship and residency in orthopedic surgery at Ohio State University in Columbus, Ohio, and finished his foot and ankle fellowship training at the Hospital