Morton’s Neuroma Laser Treatment in SE Michigan | MLS Laser Therapy

Quick answer: Treatment for mortons neuroma laser treatment michigan follows a stepwise approach: 1) conservative care first (rest, ice, supportive footwear, OTC anti-inflammatories), 2) physical therapy and targeted exercises, 3) in-office treatments (injections, custom orthotics) if conservative fails at 4-6 weeks, 4) surgery for refractory cases. Most patients resolve at step 1 or 2. Call (810) 206-1402.

Medically reviewed by Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM — Board-Certified Podiatric Surgeon — Balance Foot & Ankle, Howell & Bloomfield Hills, MI. Last updated April 2026.

Morton’s neuroma — a perineural fibrosis of the common digital nerve, most commonly at the third intermetatarsal space — causes burning, shooting pain and numbness in the toes that is notoriously difficult to treat. While cortisone injections provide temporary relief and surgical neurectomy removes the nerve, MLS (Multiwave Locked System) laser therapy offers a non-injection, non-surgical option that targets the inflammation and perineural fibrosis directly. At Balance Foot & Ankle in Southeast Michigan, Dr. Tom Biernacki uses MLS laser as part of a thorough neuroma treatment protocol — providing many patients with durable pain reduction without the risks of steroid injection or surgical complications.

How MLS Laser Works for Neuroma

MLS laser delivers two synchronized wavelengths — 808nm (continuous, anti-inflammatory and anti-edema) and 905nm (pulsed, analgesic) — simultaneously to the perineural tissue. The therapeutic mechanism in neuroma: reduction of inflammatory cytokines around the nerve sheath, decrease in perineural edema that contributes to pressure on the nerve, stimulation of mitochondrial activity in compressed nerve tissue (promoting healing), and modulation of pain neurotransmitter activity. Unlike cortisone, MLS laser does not risk fat pad atrophy or plantar fascia rupture. It does not thin the nerve’s surrounding tissue — it reduces inflammation while promoting tissue healing, which may address the fibrotic process contributing to the neuroma’s enlargement.

MLS Laser vs. Other Neuroma Treatments

Compared to cortisone injection: cortisone provides faster initial relief (1–2 weeks) but effects last only 2–3 months; repeated cortisone risks fat pad atrophy and plantar fascia rupture; MLS laser has a slower onset (3–6 sessions before peak benefit) but effects are more durable and without the structural risks of steroid. Compared to sclerosing (alcohol) injections: alcohol injection series (4–6 injections with 2-week intervals) can shrink the neuroma but carry a risk of post-injection neuritis and do not address the inflammatory component. MLS laser is often combined with alcohol injections for synergistic benefit. Compared to surgery (neurectomy): neurectomy removes the nerve permanently — effective but creates a permanent numb area in the involved toe cleft; stump neuroma (painful regrowth) complicates 5–20% of surgeries. MLS laser preserves the nerve. For patients who want to avoid surgery or who have failed injections, MLS laser represents a valuable intermediate option.

Frequently Asked Questions

Morton’s neuroma causing persistent pain? Contact Balance Foot & Ankle in Southeast Michigan for a neuroma evaluation and laser treatment consultation with Dr. Biernacki.

In-Office Treatment at Balance Foot & Ankle

If home treatment isn’t providing relief for your metatarsalgia, our podiatry team at Balance Foot & Ankle can help with same-day evaluations and advanced in-office care.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does treatment take to work?

Most patients see improvement in 4-8 weeks with consistent conservative care. Persistent symptoms after 8 weeks need imaging and escalation.

When is surgery needed?

Surgery is reserved for cases that fail 3-6 months of conservative care, structural deformities, or fractures requiring stabilization.

Is this covered by insurance?

Most diagnostic visits and conservative treatments are covered by Medicare and major insurers. Custom orthotics often require diabetic or post-surgical justification.

What is Morton neuroma?

Morton neuroma is a common foot/ankle condition that affects mobility and quality of life. Understanding the underlying cause is the first step in successful treatment. Our podiatrists at Balance Foot & Ankle perform a hands-on biomechanical exam, review your activity history, and use diagnostic imaging when appropriate to identify the root cause—not just treat the symptom. Many patients have been told to “rest and ice” without a deeper diagnostic workup; our approach is different.

Symptoms and warning signs

Common signs of Morton neuroma include pain that worsens with activity, morning stiffness, swelling, tenderness when palpated, and difficulty bearing weight. If you experience sudden severe pain, inability to walk, visible deformity, numbness or color change, contact our office the same day or visit urgent care—these can signal a more serious injury such as a fracture, tendon rupture, or vascular compromise. Diabetics with any foot wound should seek same-day care.

Conservative treatment options

Most cases of Morton neuroma respond to non-surgical care: structured rest, supportive footwear changes, custom orthotics, targeted stretching and strengthening protocols, anti-inflammatory medications when medically appropriate, and in-office procedures such as ultrasound-guided injections. We also offer advanced therapies including MLS laser therapy, EPAT/shockwave, regenerative injections, and image-guided procedures. Treatment is sequenced from least invasive to most invasive, and we explain the rationale at every step.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery is reserved for cases that fail 3-6 months of well-structured conservative care, when there is structural pathology (severe deformity, complete tear, advanced arthritis), or when imaging shows damage that will not heal without intervention. Our surgeons have performed 3,000+ foot and ankle procedures and prioritize minimally-invasive techniques whenever appropriate. We discuss recovery timelines, return-to-activity milestones, and realistic outcome expectations before any procedure is scheduled.

Recovery timeline and prevention

Recovery from Morton neuroma varies based on severity and chosen treatment path. Conservative cases often improve within 4-8 weeks with consistent adherence to the protocol. Post-procedural recovery may range from a few days (in-office procedures) to several months (reconstructive surgery). Long-term prevention involves footwear assessment, activity modification, structured strengthening, and regular check-ins with your podiatrist if you have a history of recurrence. We provide written home-exercise plans and digital follow-up support.