SoftWave and Shockwave for Morton's Neuroma: What Patients Should Know

Evidence for shockwave in Morton's neuroma is limited. Here's what's known and how it fits with standard care.

Short answer: only a small number of studies have looked at shockwave therapy for Morton's neuroma. Standard first steps — wider shoes, metatarsal pads, and activity changes — remain the foundation. This article is pending clinician review by Dr. O'Neill.

What Morton's Neuroma Is

Morton's neuroma is thickening around a nerve between the toes, usually the third and fourth, causing burning or a pebble-in-the-shoe feeling. The AAOS explains symptoms and care.

What Research Exists

A few small trials have studied shockwave for Morton's neuroma — see PubMed. Results are preliminary.

Standard Care First

The Mayo Clinic lists footwear, pads, injections, and in some cases surgery.

Questions to Ask

• Is the diagnosis confirmed?
• What evidence supports shockwave here?
• What's the plan if it doesn't help?

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