Quick Summary
Burning or a pebble-like feeling under the forefoot may involve a nerve. Assessment and pressure-relieving changes can help identify the right next step. Our physiotherapists in New Malden can assess your symptoms and help you choose appropriate next steps for your goals. We agree practical goals and review your progress.
Understanding Morton’s Neuroma
Morton’s neuroma involves irritation and thickening around a small nerve between the toes, commonly the third and fourth. It is not usually a visible lump. Similar forefoot pain may come from a joint, plantar-plate injury or stress fracture, so symptoms should be assessed rather than self-labelled.
Assessment at J&J Therapy
We review the symptom distribution, footwear and walking demands and examine relevant foot function. We discuss when podiatry, imaging or a specialist opinion would be more useful, especially if symptoms persist despite pressure-relieving changes.
Do You Experience These Symptoms?
- Burning, shooting or stabbing pain in the ball of the foot.
- A feeling of standing on a small stone or folded sock.
- Tingling or numbness spreading into adjacent toes.
An assessment helps guide your next step, based on your symptoms, health and goals.
Treatment and rehabilitation options
Hands-On Manual Therapy
Gentle treatment of surrounding muscles may help associated stiffness but does not remove a neuroma. We avoid sustained deep pressure that reproduces nerve pain. Massage alone is not an appropriate answer to progressive numbness. We explain the purpose and check your comfort and response throughout treatment.
Is Shockwave Suitable?
Shockwave is not a routine first-line treatment for Morton’s neuroma. Identifying the source of forefoot pain and reducing nerve compression take priority; specialist options may be discussed when conservative measures are insufficient. Your physiotherapist can explain the more suitable options and how their effect will be reviewed during your ongoing rehabilitation.
Targeted Exercise Programme
Management often starts with a roomier toe box, lower heels and suitable padding or insoles. Activity is adjusted while symptoms settle. Foot and calf exercise is selected for your function without repeatedly provoking the nerve. Your home plan is adapted as your function and confidence improve.
When to Seek Urgent Medical Help
While most symptoms are not serious, urgent medical attention is required if you experience any of the following:
- Seek urgent GP or NHS 111 advice for severe pain after injury, inability to bear weight, or a hot swollen joint with fever.
- Go to A&E for an obvious deformity or a foot that becomes cold, pale or numb.
- If you have diabetes and a new foot wound, redness or swelling, contact your GP or diabetic foot team the same day; use NHS 111 if unavailable. Persistent altered sensation also needs medical review.
Your questions answered
Can I feel the neuroma as a lump?
Many people describe a lump or pebble sensation without an actual lump being visible or palpable. This sensation is not enough by itself to confirm the diagnosis.
Will I need an injection or surgery?
Not necessarily. A foot specialist may discuss these options if footwear changes and other conservative care do not help enough. Benefits and risks should be considered individually.
Which appointment should I book?
Start with a Physiotherapy Initial Assessment for new, persistent or recurring symptoms. We can assess the problem and agree a plan linked to your daily activities. If you have already had medical care or surgery, bring the relevant instructions.
Book a Physiotherapy Assessment or call our reception team on 07935 869938. Find J&J Therapy at CI Tower, Ground Floor, New Malden.
Related conditions
Metatarsalgia · Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
Sources and further reading
This page is for general information only and does not replace professional medical advice.
Information updated 15 October 2026. General information only; this page cannot diagnose your symptoms. Treatment is agreed after assessment. For urgent or severe symptoms, use the medical services described above.