Differential Diagnosis for Left Lateral Foot Pain when Planting on the Toes
- Single Most Likely Diagnosis + Peroneal tendonitis: This condition is characterized by inflammation of the peroneal tendons, which run along the lateral aspect of the foot and ankle. Planting on the toes can exacerbate this condition, leading to pain on the lateral side of the foot.
- Other Likely Diagnoses + Cuboid syndrome: This condition involves the cuboid bone in the midfoot, which can become misaligned and cause pain on the lateral side of the foot, especially when weight-bearing or planting on the toes. + Lateral plantar fasciitis: While plantar fasciitis typically affects the medial aspect of the heel, the lateral plantar fascia can also become inflamed, leading to pain on the lateral side of the foot. + Fifth metatarsal stress fracture: A stress fracture of the fifth metatarsal bone can cause pain on the lateral side of the foot, particularly with weight-bearing activities like planting on the toes.
- Do Not Miss Diagnoses + Osteonecrosis of the cuboid or fifth metatarsal: Although rare, osteonecrosis (avascular necrosis) of these bones can occur and may present with similar symptoms. Missing this diagnosis could lead to significant morbidity if left untreated. + Erythromelalgia: A rare condition characterized by burning pain, heat, and redness in the feet, which can be exacerbated by heat or exercise, including activities that involve planting on the toes.
- Rare Diagnoses + Tarsal coalition: An abnormal connection between two or more of the tarsal bones in the foot, which can cause pain and stiffness, particularly on the lateral side. + Peripheral nerve entrapment (e.g., sural nerve entrapment): Entrapment of the sural nerve or other peripheral nerves can cause pain, numbness, or tingling on the lateral side of the foot. + Inflammatory arthropathies (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis): Although less common, these conditions can cause foot pain, including on the lateral side, and should be considered in the differential diagnosis, especially if other systemic symptoms are present.