Differential Diagnosis for Pain in the Anterolateral Aspect of Foot
- Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Morton's neuroma: This condition is characterized by a benign growth of nerve tissue in the foot, commonly between the third and fourth toes, which can cause pain in the anterolateral aspect of the foot due to compression of the nerve.
- Other Likely Diagnoses
- Peroneal tendonitis: Inflammation of the peroneal tendons, which run along the anterolateral aspect of the foot and ankle, can cause pain in this area due to overuse or repetitive strain.
- Anterior ankle impingement: This condition occurs when soft tissue or bone spurs in the front of the ankle joint become inflamed, causing pain in the anterolateral aspect of the foot, especially with dorsiflexion.
- Stress fracture: A small crack in one of the bones in the foot, often caused by overuse or repetitive stress, can cause pain in the anterolateral aspect of the foot.
- Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Erythromelalgia: A rare disorder characterized by burning pain, heat, and redness in the feet and hands, which can be a symptom of an underlying condition such as myeloproliferative disorders.
- Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS): A chronic pain condition that can cause severe, burning pain in the foot, often following an injury or trauma.
- Deep vein thrombosis (DVT): A blood clot in the deep veins of the foot or leg, which can cause pain, swelling, and warmth in the affected area.
- Rare Diagnoses
- Tarsal tunnel syndrome: A condition characterized by compression of the posterior tibial nerve as it travels through the tarsal tunnel, causing pain, numbness, and tingling in the foot.
- Freiberg's disease: A rare condition characterized by avascular necrosis of the metatarsal head, causing pain in the anterolateral aspect of the foot.
- Kohler's disease: A rare condition characterized by avascular necrosis of the navicular bone, causing pain in the midfoot area.