High Heels and Morton's Neuroma: Yes, There’s a Connection

Women are about eight times more likely to develop Morton’s neuroma than men, and high heels are one of the most common culprits of this painful condition. 

At Concord Podiatry in Concord and Plymouth, New Hampshire, board-certified foot and ankle specialist Dr. David E. Biss offers podiatry services for a range of foot and ankle conditions and injuries, including Morton’s neuroma.

What’s Morton’s neuroma?

Morton’s neuroma is a benign nerve tissue growth (caused by thick or hardened tissue near the nerve) that typically develops between the third and fourth toes. 

Sometimes referred to as a pinched nerve, Morton’s neuroma can feel like a pebble or marble in your shoe when you walk, run, or otherwise place pressure on the ball of your foot. Neuromas can affect either foot, but it’s rare to have them on both feet simultaneously. 

Symptoms of Morton’s neuroma

A neuroma’s most common symptom is pain. While it might feel like a ball or pebble under the skin, you won’t see a lump on the ball of your foot. You may also experience numbness or a burning sensation in your toes. 

The pressure from walking or exercise usually triggers neuroma pain. Morton’s neuroma generally doesn’t cause pain at night, so it shouldn’t interrupt your sleep or keep you awake. 

High heels and narrow shoes that pressure and squeeze your toes can increase the risk of Morton’s neuroma and worsen the pain.

The connection between high heels and Morton’s neuroma

Wearing high heels puts added stress and pressure on the balls of your feet. Over time, that can compress the nerves that lead to the toes, causing a neuroma. 

Because many high-heeled shoes also tend to have a narrow footbed, your feet experience the additional strain of having your toes cramped together for long periods.

If you wear high heels, you don’t have to give them up entirely, but wearing them every day can increase your risk of a foot injury. If you start feeling pain or think you have Morton’s neuroma, Dr. Biss recommends switching to shoes that offer more comfort and support. 

If you engage in high-impact exercises and sports like running, tennis, or any other activity that requires tight footwear, your risk of a neuroma or bunion also increases. 

Treatment for Morton’s neuroma

Morton’s neuromas are usually treated conservatively. Depending on your situation, Dr. Biss may recommend orthotics, especially if you have flat feet (low arches), which can also increase your risk of certain foot problems. 

Don’t let foot pain slow you down. For more information about Morton’s neuroma and other foot and ankle injuries and conditions, contact the location near you today to schedule an appointment with Dr. Biss.