Have you looked for a neutral sneaker, or shoes with a wide toe box? Birkenstocks shift your weight back to your heel.
Also, on sneakers you can loosen the bottom of the laces and tie tighter at the top. The extra eyelet that is unused is designed to keep your foot from slipping forward, so use this and lose the laces at the bottom.
I think the toes being crowded is what annoys them, and that causes the neuropathy to be further aggravated. I found that smooth socks do not trigger my neuropathy as much as 'cushioned" socks. I feel all the loops. So much trial and way too much error in finding shoes. I am wearing Tevas, they work for now.