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What Causes Burning, Stabbing Pain Between the Toes?

by Princeton Orthopaedic Associates


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What Causes Burning, Stabbing Pain Between the Toes?

by Princeton Orthopaedic Associates

Morton's Neuroma: What It Is and How To Manage It

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What Is Morton's Neuroma?

If you've ever felt like you're walking on a pebble, experienced burning pain in the ball of your foot, or a stabbing pain between your toes, you may be dealing with a condition known as Morton's neuroma. Morton's neuroma happens when the tissue around one of the nerves leading to one of your toes becomes compressed or irritated, leading to thickening and inflammation. This thickening causes you pain and discomfort, especially when walking. The nerve between the third and fourth toes is often affected, though it can happen elsewhere in the foot.

Symptoms of Morton's Neuroma

Morton's neuroma symptoms can sneak up on you. The condition can start with subtle discomfort and gradually progresses if left untreated.

Here are the hallmark symptoms of Morton's neuroma to look out for:

Relief when removing shoes, staying off your feet, or massaging the foot.

A feeling of standing on a pebble or bunched-up sock.

A sharp, burning pain in the ball of your foot or between your toes.

Tingling or numbness in your toes around the affected nerve.

Pain that worsens when wearing tight shoes or high heels.

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10 Signs You May Have Morton's Neuroma

Early recognition of the signs of Morton's Neuroma can help you prevent worsening pain and complications. Here are 10 key indicators that you might be dealing with Morton's neuroma:

  1. Having persistent pain in the ball of your foot.
  2. Experiencing tingling or numbness in your toes.
  3. Feeling a sensation of clicking or popping when pressing on the ball of your foot or when walking.
  4. Experiencing discomfort while walking or running.
  5. Having pain that radiates into your toes.
  6. Having symptoms that improve when barefoot but worsen in shoes.
  7. Experiencing burning or stabbing pain localized between your toes.
  8. Seeing visible swelling in the ball of the foot (less common).
  9. Having difficulty wearing tight or narrow footwear.
  10. Experiencing symptoms that are gradually worsening over time.

Learn more about POA's Podiatrists:


Why you can trust us:

  • We have multiple highly specialized,  board-certified, fellowship-trained orthopaedic surgeons.
  • We know that we serve people - actual humans - not random orthopaedic conditions. That drives us to compassionate care.
  • The world of orthpaedics is constantly evolving.  Our orthopaedic surgeons are constantly evaluating new techniques, tools and methods to serve our community even better.
  • We provide outcome-focused treatment. We work with our patients to achieve their goals, all while developing custom treatment plans that fit our patient's lives.

Want to know more? Visit our website.


Diagnosing Morton's Neuroma

Getting an accurate diagnosis is the first step toward relief. During a medical evaluation, your doctor will consider your symptoms and may perform specific tests. These evaluations often include:

  • Pressing on the ball of your foot to check for pain or clicking.
  • Review your medical history and symptoms.
  • Imaging tests like an X-ray, ultrasound, or MRI may be recommended to rule out other conditions.

At POA, we have a team of doctors who specialize in foot issues and injuries. These podiatrists see patients with foot conditions all day, every day. That makes them foot experts, and that's the quality of world-class care you will find at Princeton Orthopaedic Associates.

What Else Could be Causing Pain Between My Toes

Several conditions can mimic the symptoms of Morton's neuroma but are distinctly different. These possible conditions include:

  1. Metatarsalgia: A general term for pain and inflammation in the ball of the foot, often caused by overuse or improper footwear.
  2. Stress Fractures: Tiny cracks in the bones of the foot, typically due to repetitive stress or overuse, causing localized pain.
  3. Capsulitis: Inflammation of the ligaments surrounding the joints at the base of the toes, particularly the second toe, causing pain similar to Morton's neuroma.
  4. Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome: A condition involving compression of the posterior tibial nerve as it passes through the tarsal tunnel near the ankle, leading to pain and tingling in the foot.
  5. Plantar Plate Tear: A tear or weakening of the ligament beneath the toes, usually the second toe, causing pain and instability in the ball of the foot.
  6. Bursitis: Inflammation of the bursae (fluid-filled sacs) in the foot, which can cause pain and discomfort in areas similar to Morton's neuroma.
  7. Ganglion Cysts: Fluid-filled lumps that can form on the nerves or tendons in the foot, sometimes causing pain or discomfort.

Each of these conditions has unique characteristics and requires different treatment approaches. If you're having foot pain, we recommend scheduling a time with one of our specialists. Having the correct diagnosis will set you on the path to the quickest recovery.

Morton's Neuroma Treatment

If you're diagnosed with Morton's neuroma, the good news is that there are several treatment options available. From conservative approaches for you to address your Morton's neuroma at home to more involved procedures, here are some common ways to address the condition:

  • Footwear Changes: Switch to shoes with a wider toe box and avoid high heels.

  • Orthotic Inserts: Custom or over-the-counter arch supports can relieve pressure on the nerve.

  • Padding: Metatarsal pads can reduce stress on the ball of your foot.

  • Medications: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) help reduce pain and inflammation.
  • Corticosteroid Injections: These can provide significant relief by reducing swelling around the nerve.

  • Physical Therapy: Specific stretches and exercises can improve foot function.

  • Radiofrequency Ablation: A minimally invasive procedure to block pain signals from the affected nerve.

  • Surgery: In severe cases, surgery may be recommended to remove the neuroma.

Can I Cure My Morton's Neuroma?

Morton's neuroma can feel overwhelming, but many people have successfully managed or eliminated their symptoms with consistent effort and self-care measures. Taking proactive steps at home can help you manage Morton's neuroma and prevent symptoms from worsening. Consider these simple yet effective self-care strategies for addressing your Morton's neuroma.

  1. Switching Footwear: Wear shoes with low heels and plenty of cushioning. Investing in wide, supportive shoes with good arch support is key!
  2. Using Orthotics: Custom inserts reduced pressure on the ball of the foot.
  3. Stretching: Regular exercises to stretch the toes and foot muscles.
  4. Rest: Rest your feet and avoid activities that worsen your pain.
  5. Ice: Use ice packs to reduce swelling; apply ice packs for 15-20 minutes multiple times a day.
  6. Professional Treatment: Consult with a foot specialist to create a tailored plan for finding relief during flare-ups.

Morton's Neuroma Exercises

Regular exercises can help alleviate your Morton's neuroma symptoms and improve your overall foot strength and health. The following exercises are easy to perform, and you can do them at home. Some of the most effective include:

  • Toe Spreading: Place a rubber band around your toes and spread them apart.

  • Ball Rolls: Roll a tennis ball under the arch of your foot. You can also freeze a water bottle and use that to roll under the arch of your foot.
  • Toe Stretches: Use your hands to gently pull your toes backward to stretch the ball of your foot.

  • Calf Stretches: Stretching your calves reduces tension on the foot.

Best Shoes for Morton's Neuroma

Shoes can absolutely make or break your foot comfort and health, especially when dealing with Morton's neuroma. Choosing the right footwear can drastically reduce discomfort.

Here's what to look for in the best shoes for people with Morton's neuroma:

  • Wide Toe Box: Avoid narrow or pointy shoes.
  • Cushioned Soles: Look for soft, supportive soles that absorb shock.
  • Low Heels: Flat or low-heeled shoes reduce pressure on the ball of the foot.
  • Adjustable Straps or Laces: Ensure a snug but comfortable fit.

Arch Supports and Inserts for Morton's Neuroma

Orthotics can provide essential support for your feet and they can also help to relieve pressure on the affected nerve causing your Morton's neuroma symptoms. There are different types of orthotics, each offering unique benefits:

  • Custom Orthotics: Tailored to your foot shape for maximum comfort and support of the entire foot.
  • Over-the-Counter Inserts: Although OTC orthotics are not custom to your specific foot, many more affordable options can provide adequate arch support for mild cases.
  • Metatarsal Pads: Specifically designed to alleviate stress on the ball of the foot.
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Are you suffering from pain?

Please contact us! We'd love to help.

If you have pain, please contact us and schedule an appointment. We have urgent care facilities all over New Jersey for your convenience.

When to See a Doctor for Morton's Neuroma Pain

If you suspect you have Morton’s neuroma due to persistent foot pain, it’s important to see a podiatrist for evaluation and treatment. If your symptoms worsen over time, interfere with daily activities, or do not improve with home remedies such as rest, ice, proper footwear, or over-the-counter pain relief, a podiatrist can provide a professional diagnosis. They may use imaging tests, recommend custom orthotics, or suggest more advanced treatments like corticosteroid injections or minimally invasive procedures if necessary. Early intervention can prevent the condition from worsening and improve your overall foot health.

When to Consider Morton's Neuroma Surgery

In some cases, conservative treatments aren't enough, and surgery becomes the best option. If your pain is severe or persistent, it may be time to discuss surgical solutions with your doctor.

Surgery may be necessary if:

  • Non-surgical treatments fail to provide relief.
  • The neuroma significantly interferes with daily activities.
  • Pain continues to worsen despite treatment.

Surgical options include removing the neuroma or releasing the surrounding ligament to reduce pressure on the nerve. Recovery can typically involve a few weeks of limited activity; however, each person is unique, so your treatment and recovery will be specific to you. Every person's experience with Morton's neuroma is specific to them, and surgery may not be necessary for you. Seeking professional advice from one of POA's podiatrists will help you get the best treatment possible.

No More Morton's Neuroma Foot Pain!

Your Morton's neuroma pain doesn't have to keep you from doing the things you need to in your daily life. It is possible for you to manage or even resolve your symptoms with proper care, which can include the right footwear, exercises, support, and professional guidance. If you are dealing with recurrent or persistent pain in the ball of your foot and think you have Morton's neuroma, consult with one of our podiatrists or explore your options so you can get one step closer to being pain-free.

Need Care Now? POA Has Six Urgent Care Facilities

Monroe

11 Centre Drive
Monroe Twp., NJ 08831

Plainsboro

5 Plainsboro Road, Suite 100
Plainsboro, NJ 08536

Robbinsville

1 Union Street Suite 305
Robbinsville, NJ 08691

Princeton

325 Princeton Avenue
Princeton, NJ 08540

Hillsborough

315 US Highway 206
Hillsborough Township, NJ 08844

Ewing

200 Charles Ewing Blvd. Suite 170
Ewing, NJ 08628

Urgent Care Hours

This blog post is meant to be informative and should not act as a self-diagnosis tool. If you’d like to see one of our doctors, please contact us here.

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