Differential Diagnosis for Left Shin Pain

• Single most likely diagnosis
  • Medial tibial stress syndrome (Shin splints): This is the most common cause of shin pain, especially in athletes or individuals who have recently increased their physical activity. It is characterized by pain and inflammation in the medial (inner) aspect of the tibia.
• Other Likely diagnoses
  • Stress fracture: A small crack in the bone, often caused by repetitive stress or overuse. It is more common in athletes, especially those involved in running or jumping sports.
  • Compartment syndrome: A condition where pressure within the muscle compartments increases, leading to pain, swelling, and potentially serious complications if not treated promptly.
  • Peripheral artery disease (PAD): A condition where the arteries that supply blood to the legs become narrowed, leading to pain in the legs when walking or exercising.
• Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed)
  • Deep vein thrombosis (DVT): A blood clot in the deep veins of the leg, which can be life-threatening if it breaks loose and travels to the lungs (pulmonary embolism).
  • Osteomyelitis: An infection of the bone, which can be serious and require prompt antibiotic treatment.
  • Tumor: Although rare, a tumor in the bone or soft tissue can cause shin pain and should not be missed.
• Rare diagnoses
  • Chronic exertional compartment syndrome: A condition where the pressure within the muscle compartments increases during exercise, leading to pain and swelling.
  • Popliteal artery entrapment syndrome: A condition where the popliteal artery is compressed, leading to pain and swelling in the leg.
  • Nerve entrapment: Compression of a nerve in the leg, such as the peroneal or saphenous nerve, can cause pain and numbness in the shin area.