Differential Diagnosis for Acute Ankle Pain
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Ankle Sprain: This is the most common cause of acute ankle pain, typically resulting from inversion or eversion injuries that stretch or tear the ligaments surrounding the ankle joint. The high frequency of this injury in daily life and sports makes it the leading consideration.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Ankle Fracture: A fracture in one or more of the bones that make up the ankle joint can cause acute pain. This is often due to a significant trauma or fall.
- Tendonitis: Inflammation of the tendons around the ankle, such as the Achilles tendon or the peroneal tendons, can lead to acute pain, especially with activity.
- Ligamentous Injury: Besides sprains, more severe ligamentous injuries, including partial or complete tears, can occur and cause significant pain.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Compartment Syndrome: A condition where increased pressure within a muscle compartment leads to inadequate blood supply to the tissues inside the compartment. It's a medical emergency that can result from severe ankle injuries.
- Septic Arthritis: Bacterial infection within the ankle joint, which is a serious condition requiring prompt antibiotic treatment and possibly surgical intervention.
- Osteochondral Lesion: A condition where a piece of cartilage and bone in the joint becomes damaged, which can be painful and may lead to long-term joint problems if not addressed.
Rare Diagnoses
- Gout or Pseudogout: Acute inflammatory arthritis conditions that can affect the ankle joint, though they are less common causes of acute ankle pain compared to other joints like the big toe.
- Osteonecrosis: A condition where bone tissue dies due to lack of blood supply, which can affect the bones in the ankle and cause pain.
- Tumor: Benign or malignant tumors in or around the ankle can cause pain, though they are rare and usually present with additional symptoms like a mass or systemic illness.