Conditions we diagnose and treat

Morton's Neuroma Treatment in London

Available at LSRI Harley Street (W1G 9QJ) and LSRI Northwest London, Harrow (HA2 7SJ).

Morton's neuroma is a painful thickening of the tissue around one of the small nerves that run between the long bones of the foot to the toes.

Call 0203 633 5040 Book online

5.0 59 Google reviews
5/5 Doctify
Bupa Fee-assured
CQC Registered
GMC / FRCR Dr Prashant Sankaye, Consultant MSK Radiologist

It most often affects the space between the third and fourth toes, and sometimes the space between the second and third. It is more common in women and in middle age, and it is often linked to tight, narrow or high-heeled shoes and to sports that put repeated pressure on the ball of the foot, such as running. At LSRI, Dr Prashant Sankaye, Consultant MSK Radiologist, uses ultrasound to confirm the diagnosis and, where it is the right option for you, offers ultrasound-guided injections to ease the pain.

Why choose LSRI

Consultant-led care from Dr Prashant Sankaye, Consultant MSK Radiologist with more than 20 years’ experience.
Diagnosis and ultrasound-guided treatment from the same specialist.
Two clinics: LSRI Harley Street (W1G 9QJ) and LSRI Northwest London in Harrow (HA2 7SJ).
No GP referral needed, and all major insurers accepted.
After Dr Sankaye has reported your scan, you can have a free 5-minute video consultation to go through the results.

Last medically reviewed by Dr Prashant Sankaye, Consultant MSK Radiologist, on 2 October 2026.

Symptoms of Morton's neuroma

Burning, sharp or shooting pain in the ball of the foot, often spreading into two neighbouring toes.
A feeling of standing on a pebble, or of a fold in your sock that is not there.
Tingling or numbness in the toes.
Pain that is worse in tight or high-heeled shoes and when walking or running.
Relief when you take your shoe off and rub the front of your foot.

If your foot becomes hot, red and swollen, you cannot put weight on it, or you have diabetes and notice new numbness or a wound on your foot, seek medical advice promptly.

How we diagnose Morton's neuroma

Diagnosis starts with a careful history and examination. Dr Sankaye will press between the long bones of the foot and gently squeeze the forefoot to see whether this reproduces your pain, sometimes with a click that can be felt.

Ultrasound is very useful for Morton’s neuroma. It shows the thickened tissue around the nerve, lets Dr Sankaye compare it with the other spaces in your foot, and can pick up a swollen fluid sac (bursa) that often sits alongside it. Because the scan is done while you are in the room, Dr Sankaye can press on the painful spot and check that what he sees matches your symptoms.

Ultrasound also helps rule out other causes of forefoot pain, such as irritation of the small joints at the base of the toes, a stress fracture or a ganglion. If the picture is unclear, an MRI scan or an X-ray can be arranged.

What to expect at your appointment

Dr Sankaye reviews your symptoms, footwear, activities and any previous scans.
He scans your foot with ultrasound, and arranges an X-ray or MRI if needed.
He explains the findings and discusses your options, including simple measures you can start straight away.
If you decide to go ahead with an injection, it is done under ultrasound guidance, often at the same visit.
You receive aftercare advice and a written report, which can be shared with your GP, podiatrist or physiotherapist.

Treatment options

Many people improve with simple changes, so these are usually tried first:

Footwear: wide, roomy shoes with a low heel and a cushioned sole take pressure off the nerve.
Insoles and pads: a metatarsal pad or a custom insole from a podiatrist can spread the bones slightly and reduce pressure on the nerve.
Activity changes and pain relief: reducing high-impact activity for a while, and using simple painkillers if they suit you.

If symptoms continue despite these measures, the options at LSRI include:

Ultrasound-guided steroid injection: a small amount of steroid and local anaesthetic is placed precisely around the neuroma and any associated bursa. Many people get useful relief, although for some the benefit is short term and symptoms may return. Ultrasound guidance helps place the injection accurately and avoid nearby structures.
Radiofrequency ablation (RFA): if the neuroma keeps causing pain after other treatment, a fine probe guided by ultrasound uses controlled heat to stop the nerve sending pain signals. It is an option to discuss before surgery.
MSK specialist consultation: a detailed review of your symptoms, scans and previous treatment, with a clear plan.

If pain persists despite these treatments, surgery to remove the neuroma or release the tissue around it may be considered. Dr Sankaye can advise when a foot and ankle surgeon’s opinion is worthwhile.

Questions about Morton's neuroma

Is a Morton's neuroma a tumour?

No. Despite the name, it is not a tumour and it is not cancerous. It is a thickening of the tissue around a nerve, caused by repeated pressure and irritation.

Is the injection painful?

Most people find it uncomfortable rather than painful. A fine needle is used, local anaesthetic is included, and ultrasound lets Dr Sankaye guide the needle directly to the right spot. The foot may feel sore or numb for a short time afterwards.

How soon can I walk after the injection?

You can walk out of the clinic straight away. We usually suggest taking things easy for a day or two and wearing comfortable, wide shoes while the area settles.

Will I need surgery?

Many people manage well with footwear changes, insoles and, if needed, an injection. Surgery is usually only considered when symptoms persist despite these measures. Dr Sankaye can talk you through whether a surgical opinion makes sense for you.

Our clinics

Two clinics, one team

Dr Prashant Sankaye, Consultant MSK Radiologist, sees patients at Harley Street in central London and at our Northwest London clinic in Harrow. Call one number to book at either clinic.