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Differential Diagnosis for Ankle Pain Progressing for 1 Week After Injury

Single Most Likely Diagnosis

  • Ankle Sprain: This is the most common injury causing ankle pain, especially after a traumatic event. The progression of pain over a week could indicate a more severe sprain or incomplete recovery.

Other Likely Diagnoses

  • Ankle Fracture: A fracture could cause progressive pain, especially if the fracture is not properly aligned or if there is an increase in activity level.
  • Ligamentous Injury: Injuries to the ligaments surrounding the ankle can cause pain that progresses over time, especially if the injury is not properly treated.
  • Tendinitis: Inflammation of the tendons around the ankle, such as the Achilles tendon or peroneal tendons, can cause progressive pain after an injury.
  • Osteochondral Lesion: A traumatic injury can cause a piece of cartilage and bone to become damaged, leading to progressive pain.

Do Not Miss Diagnoses

  • Compartment Syndrome: A condition where increased pressure within the muscle compartments of the leg can lead to severe pain, numbness, and potentially permanent damage if not promptly treated.
  • Infection (Osteomyelitis or Septic Arthritis): Infection within the bone or joint can cause progressive pain, redness, and swelling, and can lead to serious complications if not promptly treated.
  • Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT): A blood clot in the deep veins of the leg can cause pain, swelling, and warmth, and can be life-threatening if the clot breaks loose and travels to the lungs.

Rare Diagnoses

  • Stress Fracture: A small crack in one of the bones in the ankle or foot, often caused by overuse or repetitive stress.
  • Gout or Pseudogout: Deposition of urate crystals or calcium pyrophosphate dihydrate crystals within the joint can cause sudden, severe pain and swelling.
  • Osteonecrosis: Death of bone tissue due to lack of blood supply, which can cause progressive pain and disability.
  • Tumor: A benign or malignant tumor within the bone or soft tissue can cause progressive pain and swelling.

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

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