Differential Diagnosis for Medial Dorsal Foot Pain
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Morton's Neuroma: This condition, characterized by a benign neuroma of an intermetatarsal plantar nerve, typically presents with pain in the forefoot, but can also cause pain in the medial dorsal foot due to referred pain or involvement of adjacent nerves. The pain is often exacerbated by walking or pressure on the foot.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Tibialis Anterior Tendinitis: Inflammation of the tibialis anterior tendon can cause pain on the medial dorsal aspect of the foot, especially with activities like walking that involve ankle dorsiflexion.
- Medial Dorsal Foot Stress Fracture: Stress fractures in the bones of the midfoot or forefoot can cause pain that worsens with weight-bearing activities like walking.
- Extensor Hallucis Longus Tendinitis: This condition affects the tendon that extends the big toe and can cause pain on the dorsal aspect of the foot, particularly on the medial side.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT): Although less common, DVT can present with pain in the foot, especially if the thrombosis affects veins in the lower extremity. It's crucial to consider DVT due to its potential for severe complications like pulmonary embolism.
- Osteomyelitis or Septic Arthritis: Infections of the bone or joints in the foot can cause severe pain, redness, and swelling. These conditions require prompt diagnosis and treatment to prevent serious complications.
- Compartment Syndrome: This is a condition where increased pressure within a muscle compartment can lead to muscle and nerve damage. It can cause severe pain, especially with activity, and is a medical emergency.
Rare Diagnoses
- Erythromelalgia: A rare disorder characterized by burning pain, heat, and redness in the hands and feet. It can be primary or secondary to other conditions like myeloproliferative disorders.
- Freiberg's Disease: A rare condition that affects the metatarsal bones, causing pain and stiffness in the forefoot or midfoot area.
- Gout or Pseudogout: Although more commonly associated with the big toe, these conditions can affect other areas of the foot, including the medial dorsal aspect, and cause severe pain, especially with walking or weight-bearing activities.