Differential Diagnosis for Atraumatic Right Foot Pain
Single most likely diagnosis
- Morton's Neuroma: This condition is characterized by pain between the toes, typically between the 3rd and 4th toes, which is consistent with the patient's symptoms. The rhythmic discomfort that resolves on its own also fits with the intermittent nature of Morton's Neuroma, which can be exacerbated by activities that put pressure on the foot, such as skiing and running.
Other Likely diagnoses
- Intermetatarsal Bursitis: Inflammation of the bursae between the metatarsal bones can cause pain in the foot, especially between the toes. This condition can be caused by repetitive stress and pressure on the foot, which is consistent with the patient's history of skiing and running.
- Metatarsalgia: This condition refers to pain in the ball of the foot, which can be caused by a variety of factors, including overuse, poor foot mechanics, and pressure on the foot. The patient's symptoms of rhythmic discomfort could be consistent with metatarsalgia, especially if it is exacerbated by activity.
- Stress Fracture: Although the patient reports no trauma, stress fractures can occur without a specific incident, especially in athletes who participate in high-impact activities like running. The pain from a stress fracture can be intermittent and rhythmic, especially if it is related to activity.
Do Not Miss diagnoses
- Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT): Although less likely, DVT can cause pain in the foot and leg, and can be life-threatening if not diagnosed and treated promptly. The patient's history of athletic activity may increase their risk for DVT, and the rhythmic nature of the pain could be consistent with this condition.
- Compartment Syndrome: This condition occurs when pressure builds up in the muscles and nerves of the foot, causing pain and potentially serious complications if not treated promptly. Although less likely, compartment syndrome can cause intermittent and rhythmic pain, especially if it is related to activity.
Rare diagnoses
- Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome: This condition is characterized by compression of the posterior tibial nerve as it passes through the tarsal tunnel, causing pain and numbness in the foot. Although less common, tarsal tunnel syndrome can cause intermittent and rhythmic pain, especially if it is exacerbated by activity.
- Freiberg's Disease: This rare condition is characterized by avascular necrosis of the metatarsal head, causing pain in the foot. Although less likely, Freiberg's disease can cause intermittent and rhythmic pain, especially if it is related to activity.