Morton's Test tests for which condition?

• A. Intermetatarsal neuroma
• B. Plantar fasciitis
• C. Achilles rupture
• D. Metatarsal fracture

Answer: (A)

Morton's test is used to detect an intermetatarsal neuroma. By squeezing the forefoot across the metatarsal heads, the examiner reproduces the sharp, burning pain or tingling in the web space between the toes if the digital nerve between those heads has become thickened or entrapped. This neuropathic pain pattern is characteristic of Morton's neuroma, typically located between the third and fourth toes, though it can occur between other adjacent metatarsal heads as well.

This differs from plantar fasciitis, which causes heel pain—especially with first steps after a pause—and is evaluated by palpation of the plantar fascia or a windlass-type test. An Achilles rupture shows up with weakness in plantarflexion on calf squeeze (Thompson test). A metatarsal fracture presents with focal tenderness and pain with percussion or axial loading of a specific metatarsal, not the diffuse neuroma symptoms elicited by Morton's test.