Outside of foot pain, also known as lateral foot pain, refers to discomfort or aching that occurs on the outer edge of the foot. This pain can be sharp, dull, constant, or intermittent, and it can affect people of all ages. The outside of the foot is a complex structure consisting of bones, muscles, tendons, and ligaments, all of which can be vulnerable to injury or strain. Given the essential role our feet play in movement and balance, outside of foot pain can significantly impact our ability to walk, run, and even stand comfortably.
At the Foot and Ankle Center of Arizona, we understand how disruptive this type of pain can be and are committed to helping you find relief. Whether you’re an athlete, an active individual, or someone who spends a lot of time on their feet, understanding the causes of outside of foot pain can be the first step toward recovery.
Common Causes of Outside of Foot Pain
Ankle Sprains
Ankle sprains are one of the most common causes of outside of foot pain. When the ligaments on the outside of the ankle are overstretched or torn, it can lead to significant discomfort. Ankle sprains often occur during activities that involve sudden twists or turns, such as sports or even a misstep on uneven ground.
Peroneal Tendonitis
Peroneal tendonitis is an inflammation of the tendons that run along the outside of the ankle and foot. These tendons help stabilize the foot and are often overworked during repetitive activities like running or walking on uneven surfaces. This overuse can lead to pain and swelling along the outer edge of the foot.
Stress Fractures
Stress fractures are tiny cracks in the bones that can develop from overuse, particularly in athletes or those with increased activity levels. Stress fractures on the outside of the foot are common in the fifth metatarsal bone, which is located along the outer edge of the foot. This condition is characterized by pain that worsens with activity and improves with rest.
Cuboid Syndrome
Cuboid syndrome occurs when the cuboid bone, a small bone on the outer side of the foot, becomes partially dislocated or misaligned. This can happen due to an injury or from repetitive strain. The pain associated with cuboid syndrome is typically sharp and localized to the outside of the foot, especially when putting weight on the affected foot.
Bunions
While bunions are commonly associated with pain on the inside of the foot near the big toe, they can also cause outside of foot pain. When the big toe pushes against the adjacent toes, it can create pressure on the outside of the foot, leading to discomfort. This condition can be exacerbated by tight or ill-fitting shoes.
Arthritis
Arthritis, particularly osteoarthritis, can affect the joints in the foot, leading to pain on the outside of the foot. This degenerative joint disease causes the cartilage between bones to wear down, leading to pain, stiffness, and swelling. Arthritis-related outside of foot pain can be chronic and worsen with activity.
Plantar Fasciitis
Although plantar fasciitis primarily affects the bottom of the foot, it can sometimes cause referred pain to the outside of the foot. This condition is caused by inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot. The pain is usually worse in the morning or after prolonged periods of inactivity.
Tarsal Coalition
Tarsal coalition is a condition where two or more of the tarsal bones in the foot are abnormally connected. This abnormality can cause rigidity and pain, particularly on the outside of the foot. Tarsal coalition often presents in adolescence and can be associated with flat feet.
Gout
Gout is a type of inflammatory arthritis caused by the accumulation of uric acid crystals in the joints. While it most commonly affects the big toe, it can also cause severe pain on the outside of the foot, particularly in the smaller joints.
Nerve Entrapment
Nerve entrapment, such as Baxter’s nerve entrapment, can lead to outside of foot pain. This condition occurs when a nerve is compressed or trapped, leading to pain, tingling, or numbness on the outer edge of the foot. It can be caused by repetitive stress, injury, or even footwear that is too tight.
Preventing Outside of Foot Pain
Preventing outside of foot pain involves maintaining good foot health and being mindful of your activities. Here are some tips to help prevent this type of pain:
- Wear Proper Footwear: Choose shoes that fit well, provide adequate support, and are appropriate for your activities.
- Stretch Regularly: Stretching the muscles in your feet and ankles can help prevent injuries and maintain flexibility.
- Strengthen Foot Muscles: Strengthening exercises for the foot and ankle muscles can help support the structures in your feet and reduce the risk of injury.
- Avoid Overuse: Be mindful of your activity levels and avoid overtraining or repetitive activities that can strain the foot.
- Maintain a Healthy Weight: Excess weight can put additional stress on your feet, increasing the risk of pain and injury.
Conclusion
Outside of foot pain can be a frustrating and debilitating condition, but with the right approach, it is manageable. By understanding the potential causes and seeking appropriate treatment, you can take steps toward relieving your pain and restoring your mobility. At the Foot and Ankle Center of Arizona, our team, led by Dr. Kris A. DiNucci, is dedicated to providing personalized care tailored to your specific needs. If you’re experiencing outside of foot pain, don’t hesitate to reach out to us for a consultation. We’re here to help you get back on your feet and enjoy a pain-free life.
For more information or to schedule an appointment, please visit our Contact Us page.
