I just got orthotics for a pronation problem - orthotics fixed that then the neuroma acted up. Fixed neuroma with a big ball in the middle of the orthotics then the pronation came back. Phew!

I just got the modified ones back and ran tonight - felt very good but it will be a while before I will know about the pronation problem since I only ran 5k.

But I do know that the neuroma problem feels completely gone. The orthotic hump/ball is right in the middle of my foot under the arch and spreads out my metatarsals to give room for the nerve. The orthotics look exactly like the insert in the bottom of a running shoe.

I got the custom made orthotics from a registered pedorthist in a sports medicine clinic. Paid $525 CDN.

Morton's Neuromas often respond quite well to a properly placed metatarsal pad. It needs to be placed correctly in the area of the TRANSVERSE arch of your foot (different than the medial arch). In addition, keep in mind that tight calf muscles will contribute to forefoot pain by forcing the transfer of weight onto the forefoot a split second sooner every step. This not only aggravates a pronation problem by forcing the foot to "unlock" but also can contribute to the forefoot pain issues. Try the conservative care route before subjecting to a cortisone shot... the side effects from stretching and orthotic support are a lot less troublesome than the side effects of a steroid!


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My orthotics are soft and flexible, except under the arch - they look and feel just a bit stiffer than the regular insole. I cannot feel the dome when I run. I do find that I can lace up my shoes properly now. I also wear a moderate stability shoe - Saucony Omni Grid 6.

Yeah, $525 is a hefty price. But I've been promised that in the end the issues that I presented to him will be corrected. (Neuroma and pronation - which caused the piriformis to go haywire - ouch, ouch, ouch). The only thing he can't promise me is that I'll be able to run faster! And $400 is covered by my work health plan.

I'm 50 and have only been running for 2 years but I love it so much I will do whatever it takes so that I can keep going. I keep thinking these things are as a result of low fitness levels for most of my life and a job that kept me on my feet - in poorly fitted shoes because I ignored all the good advice that I got when I was younger!

Good luck with your own orthotics. I was told to be careful getting used to the changes.

I've had my 'fixed' orthotics for a week now and have run 4 times. After suffering horribly with a "pain in my butt" for about 3 months, it is almost completely gone.

I expressed some reservations to my pedorthist considering that I have heard similar stories and he said that not all orthotics are "prescribed" properly. Maybe just a pat answer but I'm pretty happy so far and he has promised that they will fix the problem.

I don't feel anything except better, so I'm happy!

But I am going to take it easy for a bit as my tendons and muscles get used to the proper movements.

Good luck.