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Differential Diagnosis for Plantar Foot Pain

Single Most Likely Diagnosis

  • Plantar Fasciitis: This is the most common cause of plantar foot pain, characterized by inflammation of the plantar fascia, a band of tissue that supports the arch of the foot. It is often associated with overuse, poor foot mechanics, or obesity.

Other Likely Diagnoses

  • Morton's Neuroma: A condition where a nerve in the foot becomes irritated or compressed, leading to pain, typically between the third and fourth toes.
  • Fat Pad Atrophy: A condition where the fatty tissue under the heel or ball of the foot becomes thinner, leading to pain and discomfort.
  • Plantar Warts: Viral infections that cause lesions on the sole of the foot, which can be painful.
  • Overuse or Repetitive Strain Injuries: Conditions such as stress fractures, tendonitis, or bursitis can cause plantar foot pain due to repetitive activities or overuse.

Do Not Miss Diagnoses

  • Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT): Although less common, DVT can cause foot pain and is a potentially life-threatening condition if not treated promptly.
  • Osteomyelitis or Septic Arthritis: Infections of the bone or joint can cause severe foot pain and have serious consequences if not diagnosed and treated early.
  • Diabetic Foot Ulcer: Individuals with diabetes are at risk for developing foot ulcers, which can be painful and lead to serious complications if not managed properly.
  • Tumor or Cyst: Rarely, plantar foot pain can be caused by a tumor or cyst, which would require prompt medical attention.

Rare Diagnoses

  • Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome: A condition similar to carpal tunnel syndrome but affecting the nerves in the foot, leading to pain, numbness, and tingling.
  • Freiberg's Disease: A rare condition that affects the metatarsal bones in the foot, causing pain and stiffness.
  • Kohler's Disease: A rare bone disorder that affects the navicular bone in the foot, causing pain and swelling.
  • Charcot Foot: A condition that affects individuals with diabetes, causing destruction of the joints and bones in the foot due to nerve damage, leading to severe pain and deformity.

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

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