The short answer
Morton's neuroma involves irritation and thickening around a nerve in the forefoot. It can cause burning pain or the feeling of a pebble under the foot. Assessment is needed to distinguish it from other causes of forefoot pain.
Understanding the problem
Symptoms may be provoked by tight shoes or pressure during walking. Tingling can extend into the toes. The clinician checks the location and pattern of symptoms and may use imaging when the diagnosis is uncertain.
Care and next steps
Footwear changes, pressure-relieving inserts or other non-surgical care may be tried. Injections or surgery may be discussed when appropriate. The decision should include the expected benefit, possible numbness and the risk of persistent symptoms.
Prepare for your consultation
Note which shoes provoke symptoms and whether removing them helps. Bring any inserts already tried and describe the walking distance or activity that becomes difficult. Ask whether the suspected nerve problem explains the whole symptom pattern. If a procedure is proposed, ask what recovery will involve for your work and whether further non-surgical measures are reasonable first.
Common questions
Is every burning pain in the foot a neuroma?
No. Nerve, joint and other conditions can overlap, so examination matters.
Medical sources & further reading
This patient education guide was approved for publication by Dr Shahrukh Khan on 11 September 2026. It cannot diagnose your symptoms or replace a personalised clinical assessment. Editorial policy · About the doctor.