Exam Master Neuro Practice Exam

Chronic right lower leg pain following an ankle fracture is highly indicative of Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS). This condition often arises after an injury, such as a fracture, and is characterized by prolonged pain that is disproportionate to the initial injury. The pain can be accompanied by changes in skin color, temperature, and swelling in the affected limb, reflecting a dysfunction in the nervous system and the way it processes pain signals.

In the case of CRPS, the pain persists well beyond the expected healing time, pointing towards a possible neuropathic component, where the nervous system has become hyperactive in its pain response. This is particularly relevant in patients with a history of trauma or injury, as the body may overly sensitize itself to pain stimuli in response to the initial physical damage.

Other conditions, while they could also cause chronic pain, are less likely to specifically follow an ankle fracture. For instance, Multiple Myeloma is more associated with systemic symptoms and bone pain due to malignancy rather than localized post-fracture pain. Deep Vein Thrombosis typically presents with swelling and potentially can be life-threatening, but is generally not characterized by chronic pain absent other symptoms related to venous occlusion. Fibromyalgia involves widespread musculoskeletal