Morton S Neuroma Surgery: What It Is and What to Expect
Medically reviewed by Harsha Moole, MD, Internal Medicine. Last reviewed: October 2, 2026.
What kind of doctor provides Morton S Neuroma Surgery?
Foot problems like Morton's neuroma are often first seen by a primary care doctor or a podiatrist. A neurologist may help confirm the diagnosis. Surgery itself is usually done by a foot and ankle surgeon. A direct primary care or concierge doctor can be a first stop for an evaluation and can refer you to a specialist when needed.
What it is
Morton's neuroma is a thickened, irritated nerve between the toes, most often between the third and fourth toes. It is not a true tumor. The swollen tissue causes pain in the ball of the foot. Surgery removes the thickened nerve tissue or releases tight tissue pressing on the nerve.
Why a doctor might recommend it
Most people try simpler treatments first, such as wider shoes, inserts, padding, rest, ice, and steroid injections. Surgery is considered when these do not ease the pain after several months, especially when the pain makes walking or standing hard.
How to prepare
- Ask your doctor which medicines you should stop before surgery, especially blood thinners.
- Arrange a ride home if you will get medicine that makes you sleepy.
- Plan for someone to help you with daily tasks for the first few days.
- Buy or borrow a supportive shoe or walking boot for after surgery, if your doctor recommends one.
- Follow any instructions about not eating or drinking before the procedure.
What happens during it
Surgery is usually outpatient, with numbing medicine or light anesthesia to keep you comfortable. The surgeon makes a small cut on the top or bottom of the foot, then either removes the thickened nerve or cuts nearby tissue to relieve pressure. The cut is closed with stitches and covered with a bandage.
Recovery
You will likely wear a special shoe or boot for a few weeks. Many people can walk carefully right away, though your doctor may tell you to keep weight off the foot at first. Stitches often come out in about two weeks. Swelling can last for weeks or months.
Risks and side effects
All surgery has risks, including infection, bleeding, reaction to anesthesia, and slow healing. Some people have permanent numbness in the toes. A few develop a painful spot where the nerve was removed, sometimes called a stump neuroma. Your surgeon can explain which risks apply to you.
Who performs it
Foot and ankle surgeons, either orthopedic or podiatric, usually perform this operation. Both kinds are trained to operate on the foot.
How a direct primary care or concierge doctor fits in
A direct primary care doctor charges a flat monthly fee instead of billing insurance, while a concierge doctor usually costs more and often works alongside insurance. Either can be a good first stop for foot pain: they can examine your foot, suggest wider shoes and inserts, and refer you to a foot surgeon if your pain does not improve.
Common questions
Will the pain come back?
Many people feel better after surgery, but results vary. Some people have pain return or have new discomfort at the surgery site. Your surgeon can talk with you about your specific chances.
Can I avoid surgery?
Often, yes. Wider shoes, inserts, and injections help many people. Surgery is usually a later step, not the first one.
How soon can I drive or work?
It depends on which foot was operated on and what kind of work you do. Many people return to desk work within a week or two. Your doctor will give you a timeline based on your healing.
Sources
- American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons - ACFAS - Basic Learning Pathway: Nerve Surgery - Basics, Tips and Tricks
- MedlinePlus - Morton neuroma: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia
Medical Disclaimer
This content is for general educational and informational purposes only and is not medical advice. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and reading it does not create a doctor-patient relationship. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions about a medical condition, and never disregard or delay seeking professional advice because of something you read here. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call 911 (or your local emergency number) immediately.
