One of the most common causes of pain in the ball of the foot, or cramping in the toes, is a pinched nerve that runs between the third and fourth toes. Irritation of this nerve can produce a permanent thickening or welling of the nerve which forms the Morton's Neuroma.
Morton's Neuroma can be treated with medication, mechanical supports, and injections. If the condition does not respond, then the neuroma may need to be removed.