A neuroma is a non – cancerous nerve tumor of the foot. Commonly called a Morton’s Neuroma, which is a swelling or an inflammation of the nerve between certain toes.

Location:

They are most frequently found between one or more of the metatarsal bones (these are the bones on the front part of the foot that the toes are attached to).

Causes:

The leading cause of a neuroma is abnormal function of the foot, which causes swelling and inflammation of the nerve.

A neuroma causes a burning pain, which is localised around the ball of the foot, and this burning sensation may eventually turn to "pins and needles" or a shooting type of pain may travel into the toes (most commonly the third / fourth toe and the second / third toe).

Treatment:

A specific custom made orthotic can be inserted into the shoe to stabilise the metatarsal bones, which will prevent the irritation of the nerve.

Surgery can also be performed to treat the inflamed nerve area.