bone, joint, and muscle disorders
Damage to Nerves in the Foot
Causes of Damage to Nerves in the Foot
The nerves that supply the bottom of the foot and toes (interdigital nerves) travel between the bones of the toes. Pain in the ball of the foot may be caused by longstanding irritation of the nerves. The irritation often causes the nerves to enlarge and noncancerous (benign) thickening of the tissue surrounding the nerve (neuromas) to form, usually between the base of the third and fourth toes (Morton neuroma). However, these irritated nerves may occur between any of the toes. Neuromas usually develop in only one foot and are more common among women. Many factors contribute to nerve irritation, particularly nonsupportive or tight fitting shoes. Other factors include thinning of the fat at the ball of the foot, poor foot posture, or abnormal foot structure that stretches the nerves. 