What if Morton's neuroma surgery does not relieve foot pain?

After surgery, the forefoot may remain tender as swelling and soft tissues recover. Persistent burning, tingling or electric pain can suggest ongoing nerve irritation, a painful nerve end, or pressure in a nearby space. Pain may also come from another joint, a stress injury, footwear that squeezes the forefoot, or altered walking while the foot heals.

The exact location and quality of pain help separate these possibilities. Your clinician may inspect the scar, test sensation, assess toe movement and loading, and consider imaging or other tests if the findings point to a different problem. Avoid deciding on repeat surgery without that assessment.

Arrange a review and bring a brief pain diary: note whether symptoms are under the toes, between the toes, in the scar, or elsewhere, along with swelling, numbness and footwear triggers. Use the wound-care and weight-bearing instructions supplied after surgery. Choose roomy, supportive shoes when you are allowed to wear them, and progress walking according to your recovery plan. Ask whether physiotherapy, cushioning, activity changes or another treatment fits the suspected cause. Use medicines only as prescribed.

Seek urgent care for a rapidly swollen or red foot, fever, drainage from the wound, a cold or discoloured toe, sudden inability to bear weight, or new severe numbness or weakness. Stable pain that is not improving still deserves a scheduled review, especially if it limits walking or sleep.

Ask: Where does the pain seem to arise? Is the nerve healing as expected? Could footwear or altered gait be maintaining pressure? Would physiotherapy, imaging or a diagnostic injection help identify the next step?