Differential Diagnosis for Pain in Legs and Feet in Children
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Growing Pains: This is the most common cause of leg pain in children, typically occurring in the calf or thigh, and is often bilateral. It is usually worse at night and can be associated with overuse or fatigue.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Muscle Strains: Common in children who are active in sports, muscle strains can cause pain in the legs and feet due to overstretching or tearing of the muscle fibers.
- Overuse Injuries: Such as shin splints or stress fractures, these are common in children who participate in repetitive activities like running or jumping.
- Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA): An autoimmune disease that can cause joint pain and swelling in children, often affecting the legs and feet.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Osteomyelitis: A bone infection that can cause severe pain in the affected limb, often accompanied by fever, redness, and swelling. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent long-term damage.
- Septic Arthritis: A joint infection that can cause severe pain, swelling, and limited mobility in the affected joint. Prompt diagnosis and treatment are essential to prevent permanent joint damage.
- Compartment Syndrome: A condition where increased pressure within a muscle compartment can cause pain, numbness, and weakness in the affected limb. It is a medical emergency that requires immediate attention.
Rare Diagnoses
- Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome: A genetic disorder that can cause joint hypermobility, skin hyperextensibility, and tissue fragility, leading to chronic pain and musculoskeletal problems.
- Fabry Disease: A genetic disorder that can cause peripheral neuropathy, leading to burning pain in the hands and feet.
- Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy (RSD): A rare condition characterized by chronic pain, swelling, and limited mobility in the affected limb, often following a traumatic injury.