Schwannoma causing chronic medial calf pain in a recreational skiing and running athlete: a case report.

BACKGROUND

Soft tissue masses in the extremities of athletes present commonly in clinical practice. Clinicians focusing on musculoskeletal care will be familiar with common causes such as myofascial trigger points, hematomas and even lipomas, but may overlook less common causes such as benign or metastatic tumours. This paper describes a case of a schwannoma, a benign nerve tumour.

CASE PRESENTATION: A 28-year-old recreational athlete presented with a five-year history of progressive calf pain and a palpable nodule unresponsive to conservative care. Imaging revealed a well-circumscribed intramuscular mass with vascular features. Surgical excision and histopathology confirmed a schwannoma. Postoperatively, the patient returned to full activity with resolution of pain.

SUMMARY: This case underscores the necessity of maintaining a broad differential and reinforces the importance of reevaluating diagnoses when conservative interventions fail. Early recognition and referral for imaging are critical to avoid prolonged mismanagement.