Differential Diagnosis for Medial Ankle Pain, Numbness in Lower Limb and Foot
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome: This condition is characterized by compression of the posterior tibial nerve as it travels through the tarsal tunnel on the inner side of the ankle. Symptoms include pain, numbness, and tingling in the foot and heel, matching the described symptoms.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Medial Ankle Sprain: A sprain of the deltoid ligament on the medial (inner) side of the ankle can cause pain and potentially numbness if there is associated nerve damage.
- Plantar Fasciitis: While primarily causing heel pain, severe cases of plantar fasciitis can radiate pain and cause numbness in the foot, potentially extending to the ankle area.
- Peripheral Neuropathy: Conditions affecting the peripheral nerves, such as diabetes, can cause numbness and pain in the feet and lower limbs, including the medial ankle area.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT): Although DVT typically presents with swelling, redness, and warmth of the affected limb, it can occasionally cause pain and numbness. Missing a DVT can lead to potentially fatal pulmonary embolism.
- Compartment Syndrome: A serious condition resulting from increased pressure within a muscle compartment, which can cause pain, numbness, and tingling. It requires immediate medical attention to prevent permanent damage.
- Neoplastic Processes: Tumors affecting the nerves or bones in the ankle and foot area can cause pain and numbness. While rare, missing a diagnosis of cancer can have severe consequences.
Rare Diagnoses
- Charcot-Marie-Tooth Disease: A group of inherited disorders that affect the peripheral nerves, leading to numbness, muscle weakness, and atrophy, primarily in the feet and legs.
- Erythromelalgia: A rare disorder characterized by burning pain, heat, and redness in the hands and feet, which can also cause numbness.
- Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS): A condition characterized by intense burning or aching pain in the hands or feet after an injury or trauma, which can also include numbness and is often difficult to diagnose.