Differential Diagnosis for Plantar Calcaneal Fat Pad Syndrome
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Plantar fasciitis: This condition is the most likely diagnosis due to its high prevalence and similar symptoms, including heel pain and tenderness, especially after periods of rest or activity.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Plantar calcaneal bursitis: Inflammation of the bursa located between the calcaneus and the plantar fascia can cause similar symptoms, including pain and swelling in the heel.
- Fat pad atrophy: Atrophy of the plantar calcaneal fat pad can lead to pain and discomfort in the heel, especially in older adults or those with a history of steroid injections.
- Heel pad syndrome: This condition is characterized by pain and tenderness in the heel pad, often due to repetitive stress or trauma.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Calcaneal stress fracture: A stress fracture of the calcaneus can cause severe heel pain and must be ruled out to avoid delayed diagnosis and potential complications.
- Infection (e.g., osteomyelitis or septic bursitis): Infection in the heel or ankle can cause severe pain, redness, and swelling, and requires prompt diagnosis and treatment to avoid serious complications.
- Tumor (e.g., benign or malignant): Although rare, a tumor in the heel or ankle can cause pain and swelling, and must be considered in the differential diagnosis to avoid delayed diagnosis.
Rare Diagnoses
- Rheumatoid arthritis: This autoimmune disorder can cause heel pain and swelling, especially in patients with a history of rheumatoid arthritis.
- Gout: Deposition of urate crystals in the heel or ankle can cause severe pain and swelling, especially in patients with a history of gout.
- Seronegative spondyloarthropathy (e.g., psoriatic arthritis or ankylosing spondylitis): These conditions can cause heel pain and swelling, especially in patients with a history of seronegative spondyloarthropathy.