When two bones repeatedly rub together, it will usually cause the outer coating of a nerve in your foot to swell which is called a neuroma or a Morton's neuroma. It is most commonly affected between the metatarsal heads of the third and fourth toe.

There are a number of factors that can cause a localized irritation to the nerve and thus may contribute to the development of a neuroma. These factors are:

Footwear

Any shoe that is high-heeled or is constricting may place the individual at higher risk for developing a neuroma. Morton's Neuroma are commonly found in women who have worn high heeled shoes for many years or men who's occupation require excessive stress of the forefoot such as kneeling or climbing ladders or are required to wear constricting shoe.

Biomechanical Abnormalities

An unstable (pronated) foot can predispose the foot to the development of a neuroma. The excessive pulling on the common digital nerve against the deep transverse intermetatarsal ligament results in irritation and eventually the development of the neuroma.

Trauma

Repetitive trauma that results from certain activities such as basketball, tennis, aerobics, running, etc., may precipitate the development of a neuroma. Trauma resulting from an injury such as fractures, sprains, dislocations, and crushing injuries may cause a neuroma.

Symptoms:
• The pain from the neuroma may start gradually but may become a severe and persistent pain.
• Burning, cramping, or aching sensation but may cause tingling or numbness
• Usually occurs after walking or standing on your feet for a long period of time
• Pain is usually relieved by removing the shoe and massaging the affected area

Possible Modality:
• Metatarsal pad with apex proximal to symptomatic interspace and/or;
• Scaphoid pads and/or;
• Neuroma Pads