Morton's neuroma

Morton's neuroma is an irritated or thickened nerve between the toes in the forefoot, most often between the third and fourth toes. It can cause sharp, burning pain or numbness when you walk, stand for long periods, or wear tight shoes.

This category includes insoles and protectors that distribute pressure under the forefoot, provide cushioning, and make it more comfortable to move around in everyday life.

What is Morton's neuroma?

Morton's neuroma, also called Morton's disease, occurs when a nerve running between the metatarsal bones becomes irritated and thickened. The symptoms most often occur between the third and fourth toes.

Symptoms are mainly noticeable when the forefoot is bearing weight or being squeezed, for example in narrow shoes or after a lot of walking.

Symptoms to recognize

Typical symptoms include:

• Burning or sharp pain in the forefoot
• Pain radiating into two adjacent toes
• Numbness or tingling in the toes
• A feeling of walking on a stone or a fold in your sock

Many people notice that it feels better when the shoe is removed, and worse in tight shoes or shoes with high heels.

What can contribute to Morton's neuroma?

The symptoms often have several causes. Common contributing factors include:

• Tight shoes with a narrow toe box
• High heels that shift the load forward
• High strain on the forefoot, for example when running
• A fallen transverse arch or other misalignments in the foot

How to relieve the forefoot in everyday life

A common first step is to give the forefoot more room and distribute pressure differently:

• Choose shoes with a wide toe box and low heel
• Use insoles or forefoot pads that provide cushioning under the forefoot
• Reduce activities that increase pressure on the forefoot

One example from the range is silicone forefoot protection, which provides a soft contact surface under the forefoot and stays in place with a toe loop.

How do you choose products for Morton's neuroma?

Consider where it is tender and which shoes you wear most often:

• Forefoot pads for cushioning under the forefoot
• Full shoe insoles with arch support
• Thin silicone protectors for shoes with less space
• Shoes with a wide toe box and good cushioning

The aim is more even pressure under the forefoot and better comfort in the shoe.

How long does it take?

Morton's neuroma can be persistent. For some people, different shoes and reduced strain are enough, while others need help from healthcare professionals. Expect it to take time.

When should you contact a healthcare professional?

Contact a healthcare professional if:

• The pain does not go away despite changing shoes and reducing strain
• The symptoms affect your everyday life or how much you can move
• The numbness in your toes persists or gets worse

Questions and answers about Morton's neuroma

Where is the pain located?

Usually in the forefoot between the third and fourth toes, sometimes between the second and third toes.

What does Morton's neuroma feel like?

Like a burning or sharp pain in the forefoot, often with numbness in the toes and a feeling of walking on something hard.

Which shoes are best?

Shoes with a wide toe box, low heel, and good cushioning under the forefoot.

Can I exercise?

Yes, but choose activities that do not put heavy strain on the forefoot and avoid anything that increases the pain.

Do you have to have surgery?

No, many people manage with self-care and adapted shoes. For more severe symptoms, healthcare professionals can assess whether other treatment is needed.

If you are looking for products for a bunion, you can find them under Hallux valgus.

Read more: General information about Morton's disease and forefoot pain is available from 1177 Vårdguiden.