What is the first treatment for Morton's neuroma?

Morton's neuroma is irritation and thickening around a nerve between the toes, often causing burning or tingling in the ball of the foot. Narrow shoes, high heels, and repeated forefoot loading can increase pressure in that space. Shoes with a wider toe box and a low, stable heel give the toes more room. Custom orthotics may redistribute load and support the foot according to its shape and walking pattern.

Choose footwear that does not squeeze the toes, and reduce activities that reproduce burning pain until the foot settles. Avoid walking through repeated sharp or electric sensations. A foot and ankle clinician can assess your walking pattern and decide whether custom orthotics are suitable. If symptoms continue despite pressure relief, a cortisone injection may be discussed. Surgery is generally reserved for symptoms that remain limiting after non-surgical options have been considered.

Arrange an assessment if pain persists, spreads, or makes ordinary walking difficult, because several foot conditions can cause forefoot pain. Seek prompt help for sudden severe swelling, a red or hot foot, fever, a new wound, marked colour change, or loss of sensation. These features may point to infection, circulation trouble, nerve injury, or another diagnosis rather than isolated nerve irritation.

Which space between the toes is affected? What shoe changes should I make? Would an orthotic alter pressure during walking, and when would an injection or surgery be considered?