Morton's Neuroma: What's Really Causing That Sharp Foot Pain?

Ever felt like you’re stepping on a stone but can’t find it in your shoe or on the floor? A sharp, burning sensation in the ball of your foot when you step down is often caused by Morton's neuroma.

This relatively common nerve condition affects the forefoot and, if left untreated, can lead to long-term nerve damage that may make it difficult to stay active. 

At Cascade Foot & Ankle, our experienced team, led by Dr. Jared Clegg, DPM, and Natalie Park, MSN, FNP, specializes in diagnosing and treating all types of foot and ankle pain. 

We proudly serve patients at our offices in Nephi and Provo, Utah, helping you get back on your feet comfortably.

What is Morton's neuroma?

Despite its scary-sounding name, Morton's neuroma is not a tumor or a form of cancer. It's actually a completely benign, noncancerous swelling and inflammation of the nerve tissue in your foot. 

We’re not always sure what causes Morton’s neuroma, but they are often linked to tight or ill-fitting shoes or high heels with a pointy toe box. This places excess pressure on the nerves and over time can cause the affected nerve to become irritated and inflamed. Sports that require you to run, jump, or spend a lot of time on the balls of your feet (tennis, etc.) also increase your risk of Morton’s neuroma.

Common symptoms of Morton's neuroma

How do you know if your foot pain is Morton's neuroma? Only a doctor can say for sure, but the symptoms are usually very specific and concentrated in one area of your foot. 

Hallmark signs include feeling as if you're stepping down on a pebble or sharp stone when you place the ball of your foot on the floor. You may also experience burning, tingling, or severe numbness strictly in the ball of the foot, most commonly between your third and fourth toes. 

The pain and other symptoms may worsen when you wear tight shoes or walk on hard surfaces.

How we treat Morton's neuroma

At Cascade Foot & Ankle Center, we always focus on conservative, non-surgical treatments first to help you find relief without downtime. 

For instance, treating Morton’s neuroma may include changing your footwear to shoes with a wider toe box and using custom orthotics, which can significantly reduce the pressure on your irritated nerve. 

When simple changes aren't enough, we offer advanced conservative therapies such as corticosteroid injections to relieve inflammation and soothe the irritated nerve.

If conservative methods don't provide enough relief, we also offer advanced options like foot and ankle surgery to relieve the pressure on the nerve. Our goal is always to find the most effective, personalized solution for your lifestyle. 

You don't have to live with chronic foot pain or let it keep you from the activities you love. Our team is here to help you find the root cause of your discomfort and guide you toward recovery. Contact our office today to schedule an appointment.