Calf Pain Differential Diagnosis
The following is a list of potential causes for calf pain, categorized by likelihood and potential impact.
- Single most likely diagnosis
- Muscle strain: This is the most common cause of calf pain, often resulting from overuse or direct trauma to the muscle. It is usually characterized by a sudden onset of pain, swelling, and limited mobility.
- Other Likely diagnoses
- Deep vein thrombosis (DVT): Although less common than muscle strain, DVT is a significant cause of calf pain, especially in individuals with risk factors such as recent surgery, immobilization, or cancer. It typically presents with swelling, warmth, and discoloration of the affected leg.
- Peripheral artery disease (PAD): PAD can cause calf pain during exercise (intermittent claudication) due to inadequate blood flow to the muscles. Risk factors include smoking, diabetes, and hypertension.
- Shin splints (medial tibial stress syndrome): This condition is common in runners and athletes, characterized by pain and inflammation in the front or side of the lower leg.
- Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed.)
- Ruptured Baker's cyst: A ruptured Baker's cyst can mimic other conditions but is a medical emergency due to potential complications like phlebitis or nerve compression.
- Popliteal artery aneurysm: Although rare, a ruptured popliteal artery aneurysm can be life-threatening and requires immediate attention.
- Compartment syndrome: This is a serious condition resulting from increased pressure within a muscle compartment, which can lead to muscle and nerve damage if not promptly treated.
- Rare diagnoses
- Cystic adventitial disease: A rare condition causing intermittent claudication due to cystic formations within the arterial wall.
- Thrombophlebitis: Inflammation of veins due to a blood clot, which can cause pain, swelling, and warmth in the affected area.
- Neoplastic processes: Tumors, either benign or malignant, can cause calf pain, although this is a rare occurrence.