Differential Diagnosis for Pain and Burning in the First and Second Phalanges and Joints with a Bunion
- Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Hallux valgus (bunion) with associated degenerative joint disease: This condition is characterized by a bony bump at the base of the big toe, leading to pain, burning, and stiffness in the affected area, especially the first phalanx and joint.
- Other Likely Diagnoses
- Gout: A form of inflammatory arthritis that can cause sudden, severe pain and burning sensations, often affecting the big toe.
- Osteoarthritis: Wear and tear on the joints can lead to pain, stiffness, and burning sensations, particularly in the hands and feet.
- Morton's neuroma: A condition where the tissue around a nerve leading to the toes becomes inflamed, causing pain, burning, and numbness, often between the third and fourth toes but can also affect the first and second phalanges.
- Sesamoiditis: Inflammation of the tendons surrounding the sesamoid bones under the first metatarsal bone, leading to pain and burning sensations in the ball of the foot.
- Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Infection (cellulitis or osteomyelitis): Although less common, infections in the foot can cause severe pain, burning, and other systemic symptoms, requiring prompt medical attention.
- Deep vein thrombosis (DVT): While more commonly associated with the legs, DVT can cause pain and swelling in the foot, which should not be missed due to its potential for serious complications.
- Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS): A chronic pain condition that can follow an injury, leading to burning pain, swelling, and changes in skin temperature and color.
- Rare Diagnoses
- Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease: A group of inherited disorders that affect the peripheral nerves, leading to muscle weakness, atrophy, and sensory loss, which can cause burning sensations in the feet.
- Erythromelalgia: A rare disorder characterized by burning pain, heat, and redness in the hands and feet, often accompanied by an increased sensitivity to temperature.