What Does Morton’s Neuroma Pain Feel Like?
Morton’s neuroma pain usually feels sharp, burning or stinging. In some cases, it may also feel like you are stepping on a sharp object. The pain might feel like:
- You’re stepping on a marble or stone under the ball of your foot.
- Your sock is bunched up in your shoe.
- There’s a small rock stuck in your shoe.
What Causes Morton’s Neuroma?
Morton’s neuroma occurs when a nerve between your toe bones is inflamed and swells. The exact cause is unknown. However, experts believe it commonly occurs due to the increasement in pressure on the balls of your foot, your toes, and the nerves between them. Studies show that engaging in certain activities regularly may increase your risk of having Morton’s neuroma. Some of these activities including:
- Wearing high heels or shoes with narrow, pointed toes.
- Doing physical work where you have to be on your feet all day.
- Playing a sport that requires you to put a lot of pressure on the balls of your feet, like running, tennis or other racquet sports.
There are some health conditions that affect your feet and make you more susceptible to developing Morton’s neuroma. These conditions include:
- Foot injuries (like from a sports injury or trauma) [1]
- Flat feet [2]
- Bunions [3]
- High arch feet