Differential Diagnosis for Lateral Foot Pain
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Peroneal Tendinopathy: This condition is a common cause of lateral foot pain, especially in individuals who participate in activities that involve repetitive ankle motion. The peroneal tendons run along the lateral aspect of the ankle and foot, and inflammation or degeneration of these tendons can cause pain in this area.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Cuboid Syndrome: This condition involves the cuboid bone in the midfoot and can cause lateral foot pain, especially after an ankle sprain. It is often related to the misalignment of the cuboid bone.
- Lateral Plantar Fasciitis: While plantar fasciitis more commonly affects the medial aspect of the heel, it can also cause pain on the lateral side of the foot, particularly if the individual has an abnormal gait or foot mechanics.
- Stress Fracture of the Fifth Metatarsal: A stress fracture in this bone, which is located on the lateral side of the foot, can cause significant pain in the area. This is more common in athletes or individuals who have recently increased their physical activity.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Erythromelalgia: A rare condition characterized by burning pain, heat, and redness in the feet, which can be a symptom of an underlying myeloproliferative disorder. Missing this diagnosis could lead to delayed treatment of a potentially serious condition.
- Osteoid Osteoma: A benign bone tumor that can cause severe pain, usually at night, which is relieved by nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). It is crucial to diagnose and treat this condition to alleviate pain and prevent potential complications.
- Neoplastic Processes: Although rare, tumors such as osteosarcoma or Ewing's sarcoma can present with foot pain. Early detection is critical for effective treatment and prognosis.
Rare Diagnoses
- Tarsal Coalition: An abnormal connection between two or more of the tarsal bones in the foot, which can cause pain on the lateral side if it involves the calcaneocuboid joint.
- Isolated Nerve Entrapment: Entrapment of the sural or peroneal nerves can cause lateral foot pain. This is less common but should be considered if other diagnoses are ruled out.
- Gout or Pseudogout: Although these conditions more commonly affect the first metatarsophalangeal joint, they can occasionally cause pain in other areas of the foot, including the lateral side.