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What does the operation involve?

Prior to the operation you will be seen in the Pre-assessment clinic or receive a phone call assessment. This is to ensure that you are fit to have surgery.

A small incision is made over the affected area and the nerve is either released or excised. The operation can be performed under local or general anaesthetic as a day case. The incision may be made on the top or bottom of the foot.

What about pain?

Whilst you are in hospital you will be monitored and the medical staff will give you pain relief as required and prescribed. You will be given pain relief medication to take home. Advice regarding this will be given by the nursing staff before you leave hospital. 

How long does it take to recover?

You will have a bandage on your foot but will be allowed to weight-bear. You will have stitches in the wound, which should be kept dry and clean until they are removed, usually 7-14 days after the operation in clinic.

The recovery period is between 4 -6 weeks. As with all foot surgery you will experience some swelling. This is normal and can be reduced by elevating your affected foot/leg as much as possible after the operation.

You should be able to drive after a few days provided you can operate the pedals safely without obstruction or pain. Swimming is possible once the sutures are removed and the wound is healing satisfactorily.

You are advised not to fly after surgery for about 6 weeks.

When can I go back to work?

This will depend on the type of work you do. If you are a manual worker and need to wear protective shoes it may be 2-4 weeks until you can comfortably get your protective footwear on. If your work is desk-based, you will be able to go to work after a few days provided you can rest your foot/leg during the course of the day.

What are the possible complications?

  • Infection in the wound 
  • Stump neuroma (painful swelling of cut end of nerve) 
  • Prolonged swelling of the forefoot 
  • Recurrence of symptoms/ Residual numbness

The above complications are rare but can occur and most literature published on Morton’s neuroma surgery gives a success rate of between 80-90%. 

Useful Contacts

Heatherwood Hospital:

Frimley Park Hospital:

Wexham Park Hospital:

 

Contact us

If you have any queries relating to this information, please contact the Orthopaedics service.

About this information

Service:
Orthopaedics

Reference:
N/022

Approval date:
13 February 2024

Review date:
1 January 2027

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Important note 

This page provides general information only. It is developed by clinical staff and is reviewed regularly every 3 years for accuracy. For personal advice about your health, or if you have any concerns, please speak to your doctor.