What causes Morton’s neuroma?
Short answer: Morton’s neuroma is usually multifactorial. Tight footwear, repetitive forefoot loading, altered mechanics and compression beneath the deep transverse intermetatarsal ligament may contribute.
It is more frequent in women, although anyone can develop it. High heels shift load forward and narrow shoes compress the metatarsal heads. Running and court sports can aggravate a susceptible interspace but are rarely the only cause.
Bunions, lesser-toe instability, a splayed forefoot or altered metatarsal loading may coexist. Treating only the nerve without recognising the surrounding mechanics can leave ongoing irritation.