Recognize the Symptoms of Morton’s Neuroma: Don’t Ignore Foot Pain

April 14 2025

Have you ever felt like you’re standing on a pebble, even though your shoe is completely empty? Or experienced a sharp, burning sensation radiating from the ball of your foot into your toes? These are classic warning signs of Morton’s Neuroma — a painful foot condition that’s more common than you might think.

Morton’s Neuroma occurs when the tissue around one of the nerves leading to your toes thickens, often as a result of irritation or excessive pressure. The condition typically develops between the third and fourth toes, but it can affect other areas as well.

Common Symptoms of Morton’s Neuroma

Being able to recognize the early signs of Morton’s Neuroma is key to preventing long-term discomfort and avoiding more invasive treatments. Here are the most common symptoms:

🦶 A Feeling Like Standing on a Pebble

One of the earliest and most noticeable signs is the sensation that you have a small rock or lump inside your shoe, even when there’s nothing there. This uncomfortable feeling often appears when walking or wearing tight shoes and tends to ease up when you remove your shoes or massage the foot.

🔥 Burning Pain in the Ball of Your Foot

Another hallmark symptom is a sharp, burning pain in the ball of your foot. This discomfort can spread outward, radiating into your toes. Some people describe the sensation as walking on a hot coal or feeling an electric shock, especially when putting pressure on the affected foot.

⚡ Tingling or Numbness in Your Toes

Alongside burning pain, many patients notice a tingling or “pins and needles” sensation in their toes. Numbness may also occur, especially after standing or walking for extended periods. These nerve-related symptoms are a clear signal that something isn’t right.

Why You Shouldn’t Ignore These Symptoms

Morton’s Neuroma doesn’t typically go away on its own. Without proper care, the condition can worsen, leading to more severe pain and possibly requiring surgery. Early intervention — whether that means changing footwear, using custom orthotics, or seeking professional medical advice — can prevent long-term nerve damage.

When to See a Specialist

If you’ve been experiencing any of these symptoms:

Feeling like there’s a pebble in your shoe
Burning or sharp pain in the ball of your foot
Tingling or numbness in your toes

… it’s time to have your foot evaluated by a podiatrist. A proper diagnosis is essential for relieving your discomfort and getting you back on your feet, pain-free.

Don’t let foot pain control your life.
If you suspect Morton’s Neuroma, early treatment can make all the difference.

📞 Call today to schedule your appointment: 239-430-3668 (FOOT)

Serving Southwest Florida Since 2005, Family Foot & Leg Center has 9 convenient locations throughout Collier, Lee, Charlotte, and Sarasota Counties. Offering pediatric to geriatric family care: Ingrown Toenails, Heel Pain, Bunions, Foot / Ankle Arthritis Pain, Plantar Fasciitis, Foot / Ankle Surgery, Custom Orthotics, and Diabetic Wound Care. In office X-rays, ultrasounds, and minor surgical suite exam rooms. Practice powered by EMR and advanced technologies. Home of the Lam Minimally Invasive No-Scar Bunion Surgery! Come Discover Why Patients Love Our 5-Star Foot & Ankle Care! Same Day Appointments! Easy Online Appointment Scheduling.