Your Care Instructions

When your toes are squeezed together, often over a period of months or even years, the nerve that runs between the toes can swell and get thicker. This is called a Morton's neuroma. It may feel like a small lump is pushing inside the ball of your foot. When you walk or move your toes, you feel pain that sometimes moves into your toes. If the pressure continues, it may damage the nerve.

The nerve swelling may go away with a change of shoes if you catch the condition early. Your doctor may advise you to wear wide-toed shoes. He or she also may suggest that you ice the sore spot and limit activities that put pressure on the nerve. If these steps do not relieve your symptoms, your doctor may have you use special pads or devices that spread the toes to keep them from squeezing the nerve. In some cases, a doctor may give a cortisone shot to reduce swelling and pain. If these treatments do not help, your doctor may suggest surgery to relieve pressure or remove the swollen nerve.

How can you care for yourself at home?

• Ask your doctor if you can take an over-the-counter pain medicine, such as acetaminophen (Tylenol), ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), or naproxen (Aleve). Be safe with medicines. Read and follow all instructions on the label.
• Try to stay off your feet as much as possible until the pain and swelling go away.
• Avoid wearing tight, pointy, or high-heeled shoes. Instead, wear roomy footwear.
• Put ice or a cold pack on the area for 10 to 20 minutes at a time. Put a thin cloth between the ice and your skin.
• Try massaging your feet to relax the muscles around the nerve.
• If your doctor prescribed special pads or a device to relieve pressure on your toes, use these items as directed.
• Until all pain and swelling go away, avoid activities that put pressure on the toes, such as racquet sports or running.