Differential Diagnosis for Foot Pain
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Plantar Fasciitis: This is the most common cause of foot pain, especially in the heel. It is characterized by inflammation of the plantar fascia, leading to pain and stiffness, particularly after periods of rest or at the start of the day.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Morton's Neuroma: A condition where the tissue around a nerve leading to the toes thickens, causing pain, numbness, or tingling, typically between the third and fourth toes.
- Achilles Tendinitis: Inflammation of the Achilles tendon, leading to pain and stiffness in the back of the ankle.
- Bunions: A bony growth at the base of the big toe, causing pain, redness, and swelling due to friction and pressure.
- Gout: A form of arthritis characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain, swelling, redness, and tenderness, often in the big toe.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT): A blood clot in a deep vein, typically in the legs. While less common, it's critical to consider due to the risk of pulmonary embolism.
- Osteomyelitis: An infection of the bone, which can cause severe pain, swelling, and redness. It requires prompt antibiotic treatment to prevent serious complications.
- Compartment Syndrome: A condition where pressure within the muscles builds to dangerous levels, cutting off blood flow and potentially leading to permanent damage if not treated promptly.
Rare Diagnoses
- Erythromelalgia: A disorder characterized by burning pain, heat, and redness in the hands and feet, which can be primary or secondary to other conditions like myeloproliferative disorders.
- Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS): A chronic pain condition that most often affects one of the arms, legs, hands, or feet after an injury or trauma, characterized by intense burning or aching pain.
- Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome: A condition that is similar to carpal tunnel syndrome but affects the nerves in the feet, causing pain, numbness, and tingling in the sole of the foot.