Morton's neuroma is a condition that affects the nerves in the foot, specifically the plantar digital nerves that run between the metatarsal bones (the long bones in the foot) and into the toes. It is also known as intermetatarsal neuroma.

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In many cases, this condition occurs when the tissue surrounding the nerve thickens, causing the nerve to become compressed and inflamed.

Symptoms may include:

Pain in the ball of the foot‍
Usually between the third and fourth toes, or occasionally between the second and third toes.

Burning or shooting pain
A burning or shooting sensation that can extend into the toes.

Tingling or numbness
Some people may also experience tingling or numbness in the affected area.

Pain that worsens with activity
The pain may become more intense when you are standing, walking, or participating in high-impact activities that put pressure on the feet.

Pain relief with rest
The pain may lessen when you stop activities and rest your feet.

Like a stone in your shoe
Some people may feel like there is a small, hard object, like a stone, in their shoe or under the ball of their foot.

Swelling between the toes
The affected area may be prone to swelling

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The exact cause of Morton's neuroma or mechanism of pain is not always clear, but has been considered to be related to wearing tight shoes, high heels, or participating in high-impact activities that put pressure on the feet.

Assuming that conservative or non-operative treatment approaches have been considered or attempted, your doctor or physiotherapist may recommend surgery.

The surgery is usually performed as an ‘outpatient procedure’, meaning you can typically go home the same day, but specific requirements for the procedure may vary. If you have any questions about this, ensure you have discussed your options with your surgeon and care team in advance.

The goal of surgery is to remove the thickened tissue around the affected nerve, to relieve the pressure and pain. Morton's neuroma typically involves.

Anaesthesia‍
Unless specified otherwise, the surgery will be performed under local anaesthesia, only the foot will be numbed, and you will remain awake during the procedure.

Incision
The surgeon will make an incision on the top of the foot, near the affected area.

Nerve identification
The surgeon will carefully locate and identify the affected nerve.

Tissue removal‍
The surgeon will remove the inflamed and thickened tissue surrounding the affected nerve.

Wound closure
The incision will be closed with sutures, and a bandage will be applied.

Recovery
After the surgery, you will need to keep weight off your foot for a period of time to allow the incision to heal. You may need to wear a recovery boot for a few weeks, and physiotherapy is recommended to help you rebuild strength and improve mobility in your foot and ankle.

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