Differential Diagnosis for Pinching Feeling in the Back of the Upper Calf
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Muscle strain or overuse: This is the most common cause of a pinching feeling in the back of the upper calf, often resulting from physical activity, exercise, or repetitive strain on the muscles.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Shin splints: Medial tibial stress syndrome, commonly known as shin splints, can cause pain and a pinching sensation in the lower leg, including the back of the upper calf.
- Calf muscle cramp: Cramping in the calf muscles can lead to a pinching or tight feeling in the affected area.
- Peripheral nerve entrapment: Entrapment of nerves in the lower leg, such as the peroneal or tibial nerves, can cause pain, numbness, and a pinching sensation.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Deep vein thrombosis (DVT): Although less common, DVT is a potentially life-threatening condition that can cause pain, swelling, and a feeling of tightness or pinching in the calf.
- Compartment syndrome: This is a serious condition that occurs when pressure within the muscle compartments increases, leading to pain, numbness, and a pinching sensation in the affected limb.
Rare Diagnoses
- Popliteal artery entrapment syndrome: A rare condition where the popliteal artery is compressed, leading to pain, numbness, and a pinching sensation in the calf.
- Tarsal tunnel syndrome: A rare condition that occurs when the posterior tibial nerve is compressed, causing pain, numbness, and a pinching sensation in the foot and calf.
- Cyst or tumor: Rarely, a cyst or tumor in the calf can cause a pinching sensation due to compression of surrounding tissues.