Differential Diagnosis for Swelling to Plantar Surface of Metatarsal Heads
- Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Metatarsalgia: This condition is characterized by pain and swelling in the metatarsal area, often due to overuse, poor footwear, or abnormal gait mechanics. It's a common issue that affects the plantar surface of the metatarsal heads, making it the most likely diagnosis.
- Other Likely Diagnoses
- Morton's Neuroma: A condition where a nerve between the toes becomes inflamed, causing pain, swelling, and numbness. It typically affects the area between the third and fourth toes, corresponding to the plantar surface of the metatarsal heads.
- Plantar Fasciitis: Inflammation of the plantar fascia, a band of tissue that supports the arch of the foot. While it primarily causes heel pain, it can also lead to swelling and pain in the metatarsal area.
- Bursitis: Inflammation of the fluid-filled sacs (bursae) that cushion the joints and reduce friction between bone and soft tissue. Bursitis can occur near the metatarsal heads, leading to swelling and pain.
- Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Infection (e.g., cellulitis, abscess): Although less common, infections in the foot can be serious and require prompt treatment. Swelling, redness, and warmth around the metatarsal heads could indicate an infectious process.
- Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT): While DVT typically affects the calf, it can cause swelling and pain in the foot, including the metatarsal area. This diagnosis is critical to consider due to the risk of pulmonary embolism.
- Charcot Foot: A condition that affects people with diabetes, causing nerve damage and leading to foot deformities. It can lead to swelling, redness, and warmth in the foot, including the metatarsal area.
- Rare Diagnoses
- Freiberg's Disease: A rare condition that affects the metatarsal bones, causing pain, swelling, and limited mobility. It typically affects adolescents and young adults.
- Kohler's Disease: A rare bone disorder that affects the navicular bone but can also cause pain and swelling in the metatarsal area.
- Tumor (e.g., osteochondroma, plantar fibroma): Although rare, tumors can occur in the foot and cause swelling, pain, and other symptoms around the metatarsal heads.