That Burning Feeling in Your Foot? You’re Not Alone.
Imagine this: you’re on your usual lunchtime walk through the CBD, or maybe out shopping at Orchard Road. But something’s off. A burning or tingling pain starts creeping into the ball of your foot. It feels like you’re walking on a pebble stuck in your shoe — but there’s nothing there. You shift your weight, hoping it’ll go away… but it doesn’t.
This isn’t just tired feet. It could be Morton’s neuroma — a common foot condition we see in active adults across Singapore.
Let’s break it down: what it is, what causes it, how to ease the pain, and when to seek help from a podiatrist.
What is Morton’s Neuroma?
Morton’s neuroma is a thickening of the tissue around one of the nerves leading to your toes, most commonly between the 3rd and 4th toes. The condition causes nerve irritation and results in burning, numbness, or a sharp pain in the forefoot.
It’s not actually a tumour, despite the name “neuroma.” Think of it more like a pinched nerve — one that doesn’t get better with just rest alone.
What Are the Symptoms of Morton’s Neuroma?
Common signs include:
- A burning or tingling sensation in the ball of your foot
- Numbness in your toes
- A feeling of walking on a pebble
- Pain that worsens with activity or tight footwear
- Relief when removing your shoes or massaging your foot
If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone. Many Singaporeans brush this off as “normal foot pain” — but early intervention makes a huge difference.
What Causes Morton’s Neuroma?
There isn’t just one cause — often it’s a combination of lifestyle and anatomical factors. Common causes include:
- Tight or narrow shoes (especially high heels)
- Flat feet or high arches, leading to pressure on the forefoot
- Overuse from walking or running (common in active adults in Singapore)
- Foot trauma or repetitive stress
Our hot and humid climate also means many wear sandals or minimal footwear for comfort — unfortunately, these often lack the support needed to prevent nerve compression.
Is Walking Good for Morton’s Neuroma?
Mild walking may be okay, but prolonged standing or walking — especially in unsupportive or tight shoes — can aggravate symptoms.
Stick to short walks in supportive, wide-fitting footwear and monitor your symptoms closely. If the burning or numbness worsens, it’s time to consult a podiatrist.
What Is the Best Exercise for Morton’s Neuroma?
Here are some gentle, podiatrist-approved exercises:
- Toe Spreads
- Sit down, place feet flat, and try to spread your toes apart.
- Hold for 5 seconds. Repeat 10 times.
- Ball Roll
- Roll a small ball (like a tennis or massage ball) under your foot for 2–3 minutes.
- Calf and Plantar Fascia Stretches
- Loosen tight muscles and improve foot flexibility.
- Toe Flex or Strengthening
- Place a towel on the floor and scrunch it towards you using your toes.
These help relieve pressure on the nerve and reduce symptoms, but they aren’t a replacement for professional advice if pain persists
What Should You Avoid with Morton’s Neuroma?
- Tight, narrow, or high-heeled shoes
- High-impact activities like running or jumping
- Ignoring the pain or hoping it’ll go away
- Self-diagnosing without seeing a professional
Many people delay seeking help, thinking the discomfort is “normal.” But an untreated neuroma can lead to chronic pain and limited mobility.
What Happens If You Ignore Morton’s Neuroma?
The condition may worsen over time, causing:
- Persistent nerve pain
- Increased difficulty walking or standing
- Numbness that becomes permanent
- Need for surgery if conservative treatments fail
Early diagnosis and targeted treatment are key.
How Can a Podiatrist Help?
Podiatrists are experts in foot and nerve-related conditions. At Physio & Sole Clinic, here’s how we support you:
- Detailed gait and biomechanical assessments
- Custom orthotics to redistribute pressure
- Footwear recommendations tailored to your lifestyle
- Referral for imaging or injections if needed
We work with you to get to the root cause, not just the symptoms.
When Should You See a Podiatrist?
Seek help if:
- Pain is interfering with daily activities
- Symptoms persist beyond 1–2 weeks
- You feel numbness, tingling, or a “rock in your shoe” sensation often
Getting expert care early can help you avoid long-term nerve damage.
Don’t Let Foot Pain Slow You Down
We know life in Singapore is busy, but foot pain shouldn’t be something you “just live with.” Morton’s neuroma can be treated effectively, especially with early intervention from a qualified podiatrist.
Whether you’re pounding the pavement, chasing kids, or navigating the MRT rush hour, your feet deserve support.
Book a Consult Today!
Our podiatrists at Physio & Sole Clinic are here to help. With multiple locations across Singapore and a team experienced in treating nerve-related foot conditions, we’ll work with you to walk pain-free again.
📍 Multiple clinic locations across Singapore
🌐 Book online at physioandsole.com.sg
