Question

A 46 year old male comes into ER limping a little on the right side. He states that it felt as though he was kicked in the back of the leg during a soccer game, but clearly no one was behind him. What is the most likely diagnosis?

Answer 1

The likely diagnosis is a ruptured Achilles tendon, confirmed by medical imaging and treated with immobilization or surgery.

Step-by-step explanation:

The most likely diagnosis for a 46-year-old male who feels like he was kicked in the back of the leg during a soccer game and is now limping, but no one was behind him, is a ruptured Achilles tendon. This injury is often described by patients as feeling like they've been hit in the back of the leg, which is consistent with the sensation the patient in the question described. Achilles tendon ruptures are more likely to occur during activities that involve sudden starts and stops, a common occurrence in soccer. Immediate medical evaluation and an MRI or ultrasound can confirm the diagnosis. Treatment usually involves immobilization or surgical repair, depending on the severity.