Foot & toes
Morton's neuroma
Burning forefoot pain from an irritated nerve: shoes, offloading, injections and surgical options.
Understanding the condition
Morton’s neuroma is irritation and thickening around a small nerve between the metatarsal bones. It can cause burning or shooting pain, tingling and a pebble-like feeling. It is not a cancer. Examination and sometimes ultrasound help distinguish other causes of forefoot pain.
Treatment options
Wide comfortable footwear, a lower heel, metatarsal pads and changes to aggravating activity are common first measures. An injection may help selected patients. Surgery is considered for continuing symptoms after a suitable trial of non-surgical care.
What a procedure may involve
A surgical procedure may remove the painful portion of nerve or, in selected situations, relieve pressure around it. Your surgeon will explain the approach and why it is recommended. Removing the nerve produces permanent altered sensation in the area it supplies.
Risks and benefits to discuss
The goal is pain relief, but symptoms may persist or recur. A painful nerve stump can develop after removal. Other risks include infection, scar sensitivity, wound problems, swelling and blood clots. Permanent numbness after nerve removal is an expected consequence, not something that can always be avoided.
Any operation also carries bleeding and anaesthetic risks. Occasionally, complex regional pain syndrome causes prolonged pain and sensitivity. Your health and the extent of surgery change your personal risk.
Rehabilitation and aftercare
After surgery, keep the wound protected and follow the advised shoe and loading instructions. Elevation and a gradual increase in walking help manage swelling. Resume pressure on the forefoot and sporting activity only as advised.
Expected outcomes and recovery
Wound healing is usually quicker than resolution of swelling and nerve sensitivity. Return to shoes and activity is gradual. Relief is not guaranteed and further investigation or treatment may be needed if pain remains.
When to seek urgent help
Seek prompt advice for rapidly increasing pain, spreading redness, wound discharge, fever, new numbness or a cast or boot causing pressure. New calf pain or swelling needs urgent assessment. Chest pain or breathlessness needs emergency help: call 999.
Your consent discussion
Ask which treatment best addresses your symptoms, what alternatives are reasonable, what the main risks mean for you, and what recovery will involve at home and work. This guide supports that discussion; consent is completed with your treating team. Your individual written instructions take priority.
Your consent discussion
Use the patient pack to record your priorities, the proposed procedure, its alternatives, the benefits you hope for and risks that matter to you. A clinician will discuss your individual circumstances and complete the appropriate hospital consent process with you.
Reading or downloading a guide does not give consent. You can ask further questions, decline treatment or change your mind before the procedure.
Further reading & sources
Prepared 10 October 2026 for the practice of Mr Peyman Bakhshayesh. Professional background. General patient education; your clinical assessment and written instructions determine your care.
Private care in Huddersfield
Let’s talk about your next step.
Arrange an appointment to discuss your concerns and the options available to you.