Differential Diagnosis for Lateral Foot Pain and Snapping
- Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Peroneal tendonitis or peroneal tendon dislocation: This condition is characterized by inflammation or dislocation of the peroneal tendons, which run along the lateral aspect of the foot and ankle. The snapping sensation can occur as the tendon subluxates over the lateral malleolus, making it a common cause of lateral foot pain and snapping.
- Other Likely Diagnoses
- Cuboid syndrome: This involves the cuboid bone in the midfoot and can cause pain on the lateral side of the foot. The snapping or clicking can be due to the movement of the cuboid bone out of place.
- Lateral ankle ligament sprain: Although more commonly associated with acute ankle injuries, chronic sprains can lead to ongoing pain and instability, potentially causing a snapping sensation due to ligament laxity.
- Sinus tarsi syndrome: This condition affects the sinus tarsi, a small canal in the foot, and can cause pain and snapping on the lateral side due to inflammation or scar tissue formation.
- Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Osteochondral lesion of the talus or calcaneus: Although less common, an osteochondral lesion (a piece of cartilage and bone that becomes damaged) in the talus or calcaneus can cause deep ankle pain and may lead to a snapping sensation if the fragment becomes loose and moves.
- Nerve entrapment (e.g., sural nerve or peroneal nerve): Entrapment of nerves around the lateral foot can cause pain, numbness, and potentially a snapping sensation if the nerve is irritated or compressed.
- Rare Diagnoses
- coalition of the foot (e.g., calcaneonavicular or talocalcaneal): A rare condition where two or more of the tarsal bones in the foot are abnormally connected, which can lead to restricted motion and potentially cause pain and a snapping sensation.
- Intra-articular loose body: A loose piece of cartilage or bone within one of the joints of the foot can cause pain, locking, and a snapping sensation as it moves within the joint space.