What Can Relieve Morton's Neuroma?

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Written By: David Stotesbury, B. Sc. (HK), C. Ped (C) / Canadian Certified Pedorthist

What is Morton’s Neuroma?

Morton’s neuroma is a condition that affects the ball of the foot and the toes. It is caused by a thickening or irritation to the nerves that run between the metatarsal bones, called interdigital nerves. Typically, burning, numbness, a sensation of walking on a rock/pebble, or a sharp/shooting pain is felt down into the toes (most commonly the 3^rd and 4^th toes). This can be caused by a number of different factors such as; an injury to the forefoot, improper footwear selection (adding a compressive force to the forefoot), or a drop of the transverse metatarsal arches (or the arch across the ball of the foot).

How is Morton’s Neuroma treated?

Morton’s Neuroma symptoms are normally able to be treated through conservative measures including:

Orthotics to address the mechanics causing the pinching or compression of the interdigital nerve
Inclusion of metatarsal pads (normally incorporated into a custom foot orthotic – but possible as an addition to footwear) to support the foot’s transverse arch and remove pressure

Strengthening of muscles within the feet (eg. Physiotherapy or home exercises)
Address restrictions in range of motion within the joints of the feet (e.g., manual therapy with chiropractic or physiotherapy)

Wearing properly fitted footwear with a lower heel to ball differential, with a cushioned midsole and a toe box wide enough to not compress the ball of the foot
Surgery, if needed

David Stotesbury, BSc.(HK), C. Ped (C)
Kimberly Rau & Associates Inc.

Always interested in human anatomy and kinesiology, David’s interest in Pedorthics was sparked when a family member was prescribed a pair of custom foot orthotics. A combination of factors lead to this career path: a fascination with the assessment, explanation, and positive outcome of the pedorthic management as well as participation in multiple triathlons and a first marathon in skateboard shoes resulted in appreciation of the value of proper foot care and maintenance.

After high school, David went on to attend the University of Guelph and graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Human Kinetics. After spending 4 years expanding his beekeeping operation and working as an apiarist at the University Of Guelph, he was drawn back to Pedorthics where he was able to complete multiple placements with the KRA team on his way to completing his Diploma in Pedorthics through Western University.

In his time spent outside the profession, David keeps busy beekeeping, woodworking, spending time with family and friends and cheering for the Maple Leafs.