Why Footwear Matters for Morton’s Neuroma
Morton’s Neuroma doesn’t just appear overnight; it often develops from repeated stress and compression in the ball of the foot. One of the most common culprits? Poorly chosen footwear. Whether it's narrow dress shoes, unsupportive sneakers, or high heels worn every day, the wrong shoes can put too much pressure on the metatarsal heads, squeezing the nerve and making your symptoms worse.
If you’re feeling sharp, shooting pain, numbness, or a burning sensation between your toes (especially between the third and fourth), it’s time to evaluate your footwear and consult a podiatrist. The good news? Identifying the root cause early can help you avoid long-term damage, and possibly surgery.
Shoes That Can Make Morton’s Neuroma Worse
Some shoes are notorious for aggravating nerve pain. If you have Morton’s Neuroma, or suspect you might, be cautious of the following:
- High Heels:
Elevating the heel shifts weight onto the ball of the foot, compressing the nerve between the metatarsal bones.
- Pointy-Toe Shoes:
These squeeze the toes together, increasing lateral compression and putting direct pressure on the neuroma.
- Flat Shoes With No Arch Support:
Ballet flats and similar styles may seem comfortable but offer no support. Without proper cushioning, foot mechanics worsen and nerves bear more stress.
- Shoes That Are Too Tight or Too Loose:
Either can lead to foot instability and excess friction, which worsens neuroma symptoms.
Footwear Features That Help Prevent or Reduce Pain
Switching to supportive, neuroma-friendly footwear can make a big difference. Look for shoes with:
- A Wide Toe Box:
This allows your toes to splay naturally, relieving nerve compression.
- Cushioned Sole:
Soft, shock-absorbing soles reduce pressure on the forefoot.
- Arch Support:
Built-in support helps distribute weight evenly and correct gait issues.
- Low or No Heel:
Flat shoes with anatomical support are better than high heels for neuroma sufferers.
- Removable Insoles:
This allows for custom orthotics, which can be life-changing for Morton’s Neuroma patients.
When Better Shoes Aren’t Enough: Additional Treatment Options
While footwear adjustments are crucial, some cases of Morton’s Neuroma need medical treatment to resolve pain and prevent it from worsening. At To Healthy Feet Podiatry, we offer:
- Custom orthotics to offload pressure from the neuroma
- Padding and taping techniques to reduce friction
- In-office procedures like cryosurgery to desensitize the nerve
- Minimally invasive surgery in rare, advanced cases
Many patients respond well to non-surgical care, especially when combined with footwear changes. Our podiatrists will assess your foot structure, gait, and pain history to create a personalized plan.
Find Relief from Morton’s Neuroma at To Healthy Feet Podiatry
If your shoes are causing or worsening your foot pain, it’s time to take a closer look, literally and medically. Morton’s Neuroma is manageable when caught early, and the right footwear can make a world of difference. Whether you need custom orthotics, in-office treatment, or expert guidance on your shoes, our team is here to help.
Contact To Healthy Feet Podiatry to book an appointment at one of our four NYC clinics: Grand Central, Downtown Manhattan, Upper East Side, or Times Square. We’ll help you take the pressure off, starting with your feet.
FAQs
Q: What is Morton’s Neuroma and how is it related to footwear?
A: Morton’s Neuroma is a thickened nerve between the toes, often aggravated by tight, narrow, or high-heeled shoes.
Q: Can the wrong shoes cause Morton’s Neuroma?
A: While not the sole cause, shoes that compress the forefoot can significantly contribute to neuroma development.
Q: What shoes are best for Morton’s Neuroma?
A: Look for a wide toe box, cushioned sole, arch support, and low heels to reduce nerve pressure. Contact To Healthy Feet Podiatry today to find out more about our custom orthotics.
