Differential Diagnosis for Calf Injury while Running
- Single most likely diagnosis
- Calf strain: This is the most common injury to the calf while running, often caused by overstretching or tearing of the muscles in the lower leg, particularly the gastrocnemius or soleus muscles. The justification for this diagnosis is the high frequency of calf strains in runners due to the repetitive stress and strain on the calf muscles.
- Other Likely diagnoses
- Achilles tendinopathy: This condition involves inflammation or degeneration of the Achilles tendon, which connects the calf muscles to the heel bone. Running can exacerbate this condition, leading to pain and stiffness in the calf.
- Calf contusion: A direct blow to the calf can cause a contusion, leading to pain, swelling, and bruising.
- Shin splints: While more commonly associated with the front of the lower leg, shin splints can also cause pain in the calf area due to inflammation of the muscles or tendons.
- Do Not Miss diagnoses
- Deep vein thrombosis (DVT): Although less common, DVT is a potentially life-threatening condition that can cause calf pain and swelling. It is essential to consider this diagnosis, especially if the patient has a history of blood clots or recent immobilization.
- Compartment syndrome: This is a serious condition that occurs when pressure within the muscle compartments increases, leading to inadequate blood flow and potentially causing permanent damage. It can cause severe pain, swelling, and weakness in the calf.
- Rare diagnoses
- Rupture of the plantaris tendon: This tendon runs from the knee to the ankle and can rupture, causing sudden, severe pain in the calf.
- Popliteal artery entrapment syndrome: This rare condition involves compression of the popliteal artery, which can cause calf pain, weakness, and coldness in the foot.
- Calf hematoma: A collection of blood in the calf muscles can cause pain, swelling, and bruising, although this is less common in runners without a history of trauma.