What are common symptoms of Morton's neuroma?

• A. Swelling in the ankle
• B. Burning pain in the arch of the foot
• C. Deep burning pain at the plantar aspect of the foot
• D. Sharp pain during heel strike

Answer: (C)

Morton's neuroma is characterized by a thickening of the tissue around one of the nerves leading to the toes, typically between the third and fourth toes. The most common symptom experienced is deep burning pain located at the plantar aspect of the foot, which may also radiate towards the toes. This pain often intensifies with activities that place pressure on the foot, such as walking or wearing tight shoes.

This symptom is a result of nerve irritation or compression, which is why individuals often describe the sensation as a "burning" pain rather than just a sharp or superficial pain. The specific localization of the discomfort at the plantar aspect aligns well with the anatomical location of Morton's neuroma, making this answer particularly fitting in describing the condition's most characteristic symptom.

The other options refer to symptoms that are not typically associated with Morton's neuroma. For example, swelling in the ankle may suggest other conditions such as ankle sprains or bursitis, while burning pain in the arch of the foot could indicate plantar fasciitis or other arch-related issues. Sharp pain during heel strike is more related to conditions affecting the heel, such as plantar fasciitis, rather than the nerve compression seen in Morton's neuroma.