Morton’s Neuroma Treatment
in Caldwell & Galloway, NJ
Morton’s neuroma is a painful condition affecting the nerve located between the toes, most commonly in the ball of the foot. At Douglas McKay DPM, patients receive comprehensive evaluation and personalized treatment designed to relieve nerve irritation, restore comfort, and improve daily mobility.
Early diagnosis is important because untreated nerve compression can lead to chronic pain and long-term walking discomfort.
Understanding Morton’s Neuroma
Morton’s neuroma develops when tissue surrounding a nerve thickens due to repeated pressure or irritation. Although it is not a tumor, the inflamed nerve can cause significant pain and abnormal sensations in the forefoot.
The condition most commonly occurs between the third and fourth toes, where walking pressure is concentrated. Improper footwear, biomechanical imbalance, or repetitive stress may gradually irritate the nerve.
A professional podiatric evaluation helps identify contributing factors and determine the most effective treatment approach.
Common Symptoms of Morton’s Neuroma
Patients frequently describe nerve-related discomfort that worsens during activity or while wearing tight shoes.
Common symptoms include:
Symptoms often begin intermittently but may become persistent without treatment.
Causes and Risk Factors
Morton’s neuroma forms when repeated compression irritates the forefoot nerve. Tight or narrow footwear, especially high heels, forces the toes together and increases nerve pressure.
High-impact activities such as running or jumping can contribute to repetitive stress in the forefoot. Structural foot conditions—including bunions, hammertoes, or flat feet—may also alter weight distribution and increase irritation.
Women and active individuals commonly develop Morton’s neuroma due to long-term footwear habits and repetitive motion.
Diagnosis of Morton’s Neuroma
Diagnosis begins with a comprehensive podiatric examination assessing symptoms, foot alignment, and walking mechanics. Gentle compression of the forefoot may reproduce symptoms, helping confirm nerve involvement.
Imaging such as X-rays or advanced studies may be recommended to rule out fractures, arthritis, or other causes of forefoot pain.
Early diagnosis allows treatment to begin before nerve irritation becomes chronic.
Morton’s Neuroma Treatment Options
Treatment focuses on relieving pressure on the affected nerve and reducing inflammation.
Many patients improve with non-surgical treatment.
Treatment may include:
Surgical treatment may be considered only for persistent cases that do not respond to conservative therapy.
Preventing Morton’s Neuroma
Preventive care helps reduce nerve irritation and maintain long-term foot health. Proper footwear and early attention to foot discomfort play an important role.
Helpful prevention strategies include:
Choosing shoes with wide toe boxes
Limiting prolonged high-heel use
Wearing supportive athletic footwear
Addressing structural foot problems early
Preventive habits help reduce recurrence and protect overall mobility.
When to See a Podiatrist
You should seek podiatric evaluation if you experience:
Early treatment can prevent worsening nerve irritation and reduce the likelihood of surgical intervention.
Find Relief From Forefoot Nerve Pain
Forefoot pain should not limit your daily activities.
A professional podiatric evaluation can identify the source of nerve irritation and help you move comfortably again.
Caldwell Office
Address
31 Smull Ave,
Caldwell,
NJ 07006, United States
Galloway Office
Address
182 S New York Rd,
Galloway,
NJ 08205, United States