That Burning Sensation in Your Toes Could Be a Morton’s Neuroma

Morton’s neuroma is a common foot condition that affects nearly one in three people at some point in their lives. While a neuroma frequently causes pain in the ball of the foot, in some cases, symptoms extend to the toes, leading to burning, tingling, or numbness.

At Mayfair Foot Care in Commack, New York, Drs. Edward Buro, Christine Peterson, and Rosario Saccomanno regularly treat Morton’s neuroma.

This article explains what neuromas are, highlights symptoms to watch out for, and outlines some of the most common treatment options. By the time you’re finished reading, you’ll have everything you need to protect your feet (and mobility).

Understanding Morton’s neuroma

Morton’s neuroma is the medical name for a benign (non-cancerous) nerve growth. More specifically, it occurs when one of the interdigital nerves between your third and fourth toes becomes swollen or enlarged.

Morton’s neuroma doesn’t always cause symptoms at first, but as the swelling becomes more prominent, it can cause pain in the ball of your foot or toes and make it difficult to walk. In severe cases, it can also lead to lasting nerve changes, which is why prompt diagnosis and treatment are so important.

Common symptoms of Morton’s neuroma

Morton’s neuroma affects everyone differently. However, there are telltale signs to watch for, including:

• Pain between your toes, especially when standing or walking
• A burning sensation in your toes
• Pain that worsens when wearing high heels or standing on the balls of your feet
• Swelling between your toes
• Tingling or pins and needles sensations in the toes or ball of your foot

Some people don’t experience any pain. Instead, they report the feeling of having a small pebble in their shoe or the sensation that their socks are bunched up. 

How a Morton’s neuroma forms

A Morton’s neuroma forms when one or more of the interdigital nerves between your toes experiences persistent irritation over weeks or months. 

This ongoing pressure leads to nerve irritation and thickening of the surrounding tissue, resulting in inflammation and pain in the ball of the foot that can extend to the toes.

Anyone can experience a neuroma, but several factors make it more likely. These factors include wearing high heels or other shoes that crowd the toes, activities like ballet that put excess pressure on the balls of your feet, and standing for extended periods.

Certain conditions, such as foot trauma, hammertoes, and bunions, can also increase your risk, so if you’ve been diagnosed with any of them, it’s important to take preventive measures to keep a neuroma from forming.

When to see a professional about a neuroma

Consider visiting a podiatrist if you experience ongoing pain or a burning sensation in the ball of your foot or toes. That’s especially true if your symptoms persist despite changing your shoes and taking over-the-counter (OTC) anti-inflammatory medication.

Neuroma symptoms can worsen without treatment. Prompt diagnosis and professional care can help reduce inflammation, ease pain, and help you get back on your feet. 

Neuroma treatment: What to expect

We take a conservative, nonsurgical approach to treating Morton’s neuromas. After discussing your symptoms, completing an exam, and taking X-rays, we develop a personalized care plan. This may include:

• Wearing shoes with a wider toe box
• Custom orthotics
• Padding or taping to reduce friction and ease pain
• OTC or prescription pain medication to reduce discomfort
• Physical therapy to strengthen the intrinsic foot muscles

Most neuromas improve with conservative care, but if your symptoms persist, we may recommend surgery. Neuroma surgery involves removing the affected portion of the nerve to ease pain and improve walking comfort.

To learn more about professional treatment options for Morton’s neuroma, schedule an appointment at Mayfair Foot Care in Commack, New York, today. Call (631) 864-3338 or book online.