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Symptoms
By Mayo Clinic staff
Typically, there's no outward sign of this condition, such as a lump. Instead, you may experience the following symptoms:
- A burning pain in the ball of your foot that may radiate into your toes
- Tingling or numbness in your toes
At first, the pain may worsen when you wear tight or narrow shoes or engage in activities that place pressure on your foot. Over time, though, symptoms may last for days or weeks.
When to see a doctor
It's best not to ignore any foot pain that lasts longer than a few days. If you experience a burning pain in the ball of your foot that's not improving, despite changing your footwear and modifying activities that may cause stress to your foot, see your doctor. He or she can examine your foot and determine whether Morton's neuroma or some other condition may be causing your pain. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent the need for surgery.
- Morton's Neuroma. American Association of Orthopaedic Surgeons. http://www.orthoinfo.aaos.org/topic.cfm?topic=A00158. Accessed July 11, 2008.
- Hughes, RJ, et. al. Musculoskeletal Imaging: Treatment of Morton's Neuroma with Alcohol Injection Under Sonographic Guidance: Follow-Up of 101 Cases. American Journal of Roentgenology. 2007; 188:1535-1539.
- Womack, JW., M.D., et. al. Long-Term Evaluation of Interdigital Neuroma Treated by Surgical Excision. Foot & Ankle International. 2008; 29(6): 574-577.
- Markovic, M, MB, BS, et. al. Effectiveness of Ultrasound-Guided Corticosteroid Injection in the Treatment of Morton's Neuroma. Foot & Ankle International. 2008; 29(5): 483-487.
- Mozena, JD., DPM, et. al. Efficacy of Chemical Neurolysis for the Treatment of Interdigital Nerve Compression of the Foot: A Retrospective Study. Journal of the American Podiatric Medical Association. May 2007; 97(3): 203-206.
- Akermark, C, et. al. A prospective 2-year follow-up study of plantar incisions in the treatment of primary intermetatarsal neuromas (Morton's neuroma). Foot & Ankle Surgery. 2008; 14: 67-73.
- Weller, G (expert opinion). Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn. July 27, 2008.
