Why does it feel like I have a pebble in my shoe?

The feeling of a pebble or a bunched up sock can be a symptom of a Morton’s neuroma. This condition is defined by the swelling and thickening of tissue surrounding one of the nerves leading to a toe. The most common site for a neuroma in the foot is between the third and fourth toes. The swelling is typically located where the nerve passes beneath the ligament connecting all the toe bones in the forefoot. Any kind of irritation, trauma, or excess stress in that location can lead to the neuroma developing.

In addition to the annoying feeling of walking on something, a neuroma may cause a burning or sharp pain within the ball of the foot. The toes might also become affected with burning or stinging pain, or even numbness. There usually isn’t any sort of visible sign (lumps, bumps, etc.), however.

If pain in the ball of your foot is making movement a bother, the doctors at Martin Foot and Ankle are the experts in treatments for neuroma and other sources of foot discomfort. Call (717) 757-3537 to schedule an appointment in one of our offices in Hanover, Lancaster, Lititz, or York.