Differential Diagnosis for Foot Pain
- Single most likely diagnosis:
- Plantar fasciitis: This is the most common cause of foot pain, especially in the heel area. It is often associated with overuse, poor foot mechanics, or inadequate footwear, making it a likely diagnosis for many patients presenting with foot pain.
- Other Likely diagnoses:
- Morton's neuroma: A common condition that causes pain in the ball of the foot, typically between the third and fourth toes. It is due to a thickening of the tissue around the nerves leading to the toes.
- Achilles tendinitis: Inflammation of the Achilles tendon, which connects the calf muscles to the heel bone. It is common in runners and athletes but can also occur in individuals who suddenly increase their physical activity.
- Bursitis: Inflammation of the fluid-filled sacs (bursae) that cushion bones, tendons, and muscles near joints. In the foot, it often affects the area around the Achilles tendon or the toe joints.
- Gout: A form of arthritis characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain, swelling, redness, and tenderness in one or more joints, most often in the big toe.
- Do Not Miss diagnoses:
- Deep vein thrombosis (DVT): Although less common as a cause of foot pain, DVT is a potentially life-threatening condition that requires immediate medical attention. It involves the formation of a blood clot in a deep vein, typically in the legs.
- Osteomyelitis: An infection of the bone, which can cause pain, swelling, and redness. In the foot, it might be related to a recent trauma, surgery, or an infection spreading from another part of the body.
- Diabetic foot ulcer: Individuals with diabetes are at risk of developing foot ulcers, which can be painful and may not heal properly due to nerve damage and poor circulation.
- Compartment syndrome: A condition resulting from increased pressure within a muscle compartment, which can lead to muscle and nerve damage. It is a medical emergency.
- Rare diagnoses:
- Charcot foot: A condition that affects the bones, joints, and soft tissues of the foot, often in people with diabetes. It can cause severe foot pain and deformity.
- Erythromelalgia: A disorder that causes burning pain, heat, and redness in the hands and feet. It can be primary (without an underlying condition) or secondary, associated with other diseases.
- 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. It is characterized by intense burning or aching pain.