Foot pain, particularly on the outside of the foot, can be a frustrating experience. This pain can arise from several conditions, including structural issues, repetitive strain, or even acute injuries. It may start as a minor ache, but if left untreated, it can interfere with daily activities and athletic performance. Thankfully, podiatric care offers targeted treatments to alleviate discomfort and prevent further complications.
Let’s explore the common causes of outside foot pain, why these conditions develop, and how podiatry can help you get back on your feet – pain-free.
Why Do We Get Pain on the Outside of the Foot
The outside of the foot, also called the lateral aspect, bears a significant load during walking, running and other weight-bearing activities. Pain in this area can manifest for various reasons, ranging from overuse to structural abnormalities. The key to effective treatment lies in identifying the root cause of the pain. This is where podiatric expertise becomes invaluable.
One of the most common complaints is pain on the outside of the foot after running, often caused by repetitive strain or improper biomechanics. However, many structural and injury-related conditions can also contribute to this discomfort.
Common Conditions Causing Outside Foot Pain
Bursitis
Bursitis occurs when the small fluid-filled sacs (bursae) that cushion your joints become inflamed. In the foot, bursitis often develops due to repetitive stress, tight shoes, or biomechanical imbalances. This inflammation can lead to tenderness and pain on the outside of the foot, particularly when walking or running. Podiatric management for bursitis focuses on reducing inflammation through methods such as icing, anti-inflammatory medications and custom orthoses to correct gait abnormalities. Stretching and strengthening exercises may also be prescribed to prevent recurrence.
Bunions
Though commonly associated with pain on the inside of the foot, bunions can also contribute to bunion pain on the outside of the foot. When the big toe shifts inward, it alters foot mechanics and places excess pressure on the lateral side of the foot. This can cause pain and irritation, especially in ill-fitting footwear. Our podiatrists will often recommend orthoses, footwear modifications, or physical therapy to alleviate bunion-related pain. In severe cases, surgical correction may be necessary.
Peroneal Tendonitis
Peroneal tendonitis occurs when the tendons running along the outside of the ankle and foot become inflamed due to overuse or improper biomechanics. This condition is common in runners and athletes who perform repetitive lateral movements. Symptoms include swelling, tenderness and pain on the outside of the foot, especially during activity. Management typically involves rest, anti-inflammatory therapies and exercises to strengthen the peroneal tendons. Podiatric care may also involve orthoses to correct foot alignment and reduce stress on the tendons.
Posterior Tibial Tendon Dysfunction
Although Posterior Tibial Tendon Dysfunction (PTTD) primarily affects the inside of the foot, its progression can lead to collapsed arches and increased stress on the outside of the foot. This biomechanical shift can result in significant lateral foot pain. Our podiatrists address PTTD through a combination of bracing, custom orthotics and physical therapy to restore proper alignment and support for the affected tendons.
Stress Fractures
Stress fractures are tiny cracks in the bones caused by repetitive impact, often affecting runners or individuals who suddenly increase their activity levels. Stress fractures in the fifth metatarsal or other lateral bones can result in persistent pain on the outside of the foot, particularly during weight-bearing activities. Our podiatrist at The Foot Practice will typically diagnose stress fractures through imaging and recommend rest, activity modification and supportive footwear to allow the bone to heal. Advanced cases may require immobilisation or even surgery.
Jones Fracture
A Jones fracture, a specific type of break in the fifth metatarsal, is a serious injury often caused by trauma or overuse. Unlike stress fractures, Jones fractures occur in an area of the bone with limited blood supply, making healing more challenging. This condition requires immediate podiatric intervention. Depending on the severity, this may include immobilisation, physical therapy or surgical repair.
Cuboid Syndrome
Cuboid syndrome, the subluxation of the midtarsal joint, occurs when the cuboid bone is partially displaced, often due to repetitive strain or a sudden injury. This misalignment leads to pain on the outside of the foot, particularly during activities such as walking or running. Podiatric management for cuboid syndrome may involve manual manipulation to realign the bone, followed by physical therapy to strengthen the surrounding muscles and improve stability.
Pain on the Outside of the Foot After Running
Runners are particularly prone to pain on the outside of the foot, which often stems from overuse, improper footwear, or biomechanical imbalances. Conditions such as peroneal tendonitis, stress fractures or cuboid syndrome can develop without proper training techniques or recovery periods.
At The Foot Practice, we perform a running gait analysis to identify underlying problems, along with custom orthoses, stretching routines, or footwear adjustments to prevent future injuries.
Benefits of Podiatry for Outside Foot Pain
Podiatry offers a comprehensive approach to diagnosing and treating outside foot pain. Here’s how podiatric care can help:
- Accurate Diagnosis: Podiatrists use advanced tools and techniques, such as imaging and gait analysis, to identify the exact cause of foot pain.
- Personalised Treatment Plans: Podiatric care is tailored to your specific condition and lifestyle, from custom orthotics to therapeutic exercises.
- Long-Term Prevention: By addressing the root causes of outside foot pain, podiatry alleviates discomfort and reduces the risk of recurrence.
- Enhanced Recovery: With expert guidance, you can heal more effectively and regain mobility faster.
Don’t Ignore Pain on the Outside of Your Foot
If you’re experiencing persistent pain on the outside of your foot, seeking professional care is essential. Early intervention alleviates discomfort and prevents potential complications impacting your mobility and quality of life.
At The Foot Practice, our team of skilled podiatrists is dedicated to helping you find relief through personalised, evidence-based treatments. We bring the best-in-class pressure sensing gait analysis to get to the root cause of your biomechanical imbalances causing pain in the outside of your foot. Whether you’re dealing with a stress fracture, cuboid syndrome, or pain on the outside of the foot after running, The Foot Practice is here to support your journey to recovery.
Schedule your consultation today and take the first step toward pain-free living.
