What to expect from custom orthotics for Morton's neuroma

Morton's neuroma commonly causes burning, tingling, or sharp discomfort in the ball of the foot and between the toes. An orthotic may use a metatarsal pad or carefully shaped support to spread load away from the irritated area. It supports pressure management; it does not remove the thickened nerve tissue.

Comfort depends heavily on footwear. A wide toe box and a low, stable heel leave the toes room to spread. A device that increases pressure at the painful spot is not the intended result and may need modification.

Start with short wear periods indoors and check the skin and symptoms afterward. Increase use only when the foot feels settled. Choose shoes with enough width and depth, and avoid footwear that squeezes the forefoot or forces the toes forward.

Tell the clinician whether symptoms occur in one space between the toes or several, and which activities trigger them. Follow-up can help refine pad position and support. Pairing the device with activity changes may give the forefoot more opportunity to calm.

Contact the fitting clinician if burning or tingling becomes more intense, the device causes a blister, or walking feels less stable. Seek prompt assessment for sudden severe pain after an injury, marked swelling, a cold or discoloured foot, or new persistent weakness.

Ask where the pad or relief area will sit, how your shoes should fit, how long to trial the device, and what alternatives exist if forefoot pressure remains uncomfortable. Ask whether your symptoms need assessment for another cause of toe or ball-of-foot pain.