Experiencing burning, numbness, or tingling in the ball of your foot can be uncomfortable and concerning. These symptoms are often linked to nerve irritation, with one of the most common causes being Morton’s neuroma.
This condition affects the nerves between the metatarsal bones and can lead to persistent pain, especially when walking or wearing tight footwear.
What Causes Burning or Tingling in the Ball of the Foot?
Nerves run between the metatarsal bones in your feet, and when excessive pressure is applied, the surrounding soft tissues can become inflamed. This inflammation puts pressure on the nerves, leading to symptoms such as burning sensations, numbness, tingling, or sharp pain in the ball of the foot.
This condition is more common in individuals with high arches or those who frequently wear unsupportive or tight footwear, including high heels.
What is Morton’s Neuroma?
Morton’s neuroma is a painful condition involving thickening of the tissue around a nerve in the ball of the foot. It typically occurs between the third and fourth toes and can feel like a burning pain, tingling, or the sensation of standing on a pebble.
Without proper treatment, symptoms may worsen over time and begin to interfere with daily activities such as walking, running, or standing for long periods.
Treatment for Foot Nerve Pain in Perth
Effective treatment focuses on reducing pressure on the affected nerve and addressing the underlying cause.
Treatment options may include:
- Footwear advice to reduce pressure on the forefoot
- Custom orthotics to redistribute weight and support the foot
- Soft tissue therapy to relieve muscle tension in the foot and leg
- Activity modification to reduce irritation
- Advanced treatments if symptoms persist
When to See Our Podiatrists in Our Clinics
If you are experiencing ongoing burning, numbness, or tingling in the ball of your foot, it’s important to seek professional care. Our podiatrists can assess your foot mechanics, diagnose the cause of your nerve pain, and provide a personalised treatment plan to relieve symptoms and prevent recurrence.