Fain in the foot is one of the common complaints irrespective of age and activity level. When there is pain on the outside part of the foot, it may be disconcerting, as it disrupts daily activities like walking, standing, or even exercises. Various factors can cause this kind of pain, including overuse, improper footwear, fractures, and problems with the nerves. Knowing what common symptoms occur with pain on the outside of the foot can help diagnose its cause and find the appropriate treatment.
In this article, we explore the common symptoms that may accompany outside of the foot pain, some possible causes, treatment options, and how to avoid future discomfort.
Symptoms of Pain on the Outside of the Foot
Pain on the outside of the foot is usually a kind of localized pain, felt along the outer edge of the foot from the heel towards the toes. Symptoms vary depending on the cause. The following are some of the most common symptoms of lateral foot pain:
1. Sharp or Shooting Pain
One of the most common types of pain experienced on the outside of the foot is sharp or shooting pain. This pain may come on suddenly and can be triggered by specific movements such as walking, standing, or even when applying pressure to the foot. Sharp pain can often indicate an injury to the tendons, ligaments, or bones in the area.
2. Dull, Aching Pain
Yet another kind of pain that people might have on the outside of the foot is a dull, ache that may continue for long periods and is often worse with activity or after long pressure to the foot. A dull ache can indicate issues such as tendonitis or stress fractures.
3. Swelling and Inflammation
Swelling and inflammation are two of the commonly associated symptoms of foot injuries or overuse. The swollen outer part of the foot creates more discomfort in relation to an ability to mobilize the foot. Swelling can be one symptom of tendinitis, bursitis, or even a fracture in some cases. It may also feel warm to the touch as a result of the body’s inflammatory response.
4. Bruising or Discoloration
If an injury has occurred, such as a sprain or fracture, you may notice bruising or discoloration around the outer side of the foot. Bruising happens when blood vessels break under the skin, leading to visible marks or a blue/purple appearance. This symptom is often accompanied by pain and swelling and can indicate a more serious injury that requires medical attention.
5. Tenderness to Touch
Tenderness on the outside of the foot may be present with pressure or touch. These can be signs of inflammation or an injury to the soft tissues, such as tendons, ligaments, or muscles in your foot if you feel pain when pressing on the area or even pressing your foot into a shoe. This symptom is often associated with conditions like peroneal tendonitis or stress fractures.
6. Stiffness or Limited Range of Motion
Accompanying the pain on the outside of the foot can be stiffness or a lack of range of motion. The pain on outside of foot when walking, bending, or stretching the foot like normal difficult. This symptom often comes along with arthritis, tendonitis, or an ankle sprain.
7. Numbness or Tingling
Pain on the outside of the foot may be accompanied by numbness or tingling in some individuals. This may even suggest nerve involvement, especially if the pain radiates or extends into the toes or up the leg. Nerve irritation or compression, as in cases of a pinched nerve or neuroma, can give rise to such sensations.
8. Instability or Weakness
Other symptoms that might accompany pain on the lateral side of the foot include instability or weakness. This is particularly noted while standing or walking. If the supporting ligaments or tendons on the outside of the foot are compromised, a person may not be able to support his or her body weight, causing the sense of instability, wobbling, or giving way of the foot.
9. Pain on Movement or Weight-Bearing
One of the major signs associated with pain on the outer side of the foot involves discomfort when walking or weight-bearing. This kind of pain might worsen as you walk, run, or do some things that can press your foot. Especially during sports or physical activities.
10. Redness and Heat
In other cases the inside may be red and hot to the touch, as well as inflamed; this is often a sign of general foot trauma or infection. Inflammation could result from tendinosis, bursitis, or even a stress fracture.
Causes of Pain on the Outside of the Foot
Pain on the outside of the foot can be due to one of several causes that have their symptomatology. The cause of pain has to be understood as one symptom that is used to lead to the proper treatment. Some of the common causes of pain on the outside of the foot include the following:
1. Peroneal Tendonitis
Peroneal tendinitis involves the inflammation of the tendons along the outer wall of the foot. This usually results from overuse, as in athletes involved in running or other high-impact activities. In addition to pain, this may be accompanied by swelling and tenderness of the outer border of the foot.
2. Stress Fractures
A stress fracture is a small crack in the bone, which may be due to overuse or repeated stress. Stress fractures to the outside of the foot, such as to the 5th metatarsal, are common and may be presented with pain, swelling bruising, and difficulty weight-bearing on the affected foot.
3. Ankle Sprain
An ankle sprain is an injury to one or more of the ligaments that hold the ankle bones together. Symptoms of an ankle sprain commonly include pain along the outside of the foot, swelling, bruising, and limited mobility. Depending on the severity of the sprain, the foot may also feel weak and unstable.
4. Bursitis
Bursitis is an inflammation of the small fluid-filled sacs, or bursae, that serve as a cushion between the joints. If this inflammation occurs on the outer side of the foot, it can result in pain, swelling, and tenderness. It often results from repetitive friction or pressure on the foot.
5. Nerve Compression or Neuroma
Nerve compression, such as from a pinched nerve or neuroma, may cause pain, tingling, and numbness on the outside of the foot. This usually results from pressure on the nerves in the foot, leading to irritation or inflammation.
6. Arthritis
Arthritis, especially osteoarthritis, may affect the joints in the foot and give rise to painful stiffness. The outer side of the foot may get hurt and can be distressing while walking or standing for extended periods.
7. Footwear Problems
Pain on the outside of the foot is caused by poorly fitted shoes, particularly those that are too tight or lack support. A shoe that puts excessive pressure on the outer edge of the foot can cause such conditions as bunions or calluses, which eventually create pain and discomfort.
Treatment Options for Foot Pain
Treatment for pain on the outside of the foot depends on the underlying cause. Some common treatment options include:
- Rest and Ice: Taking a break from activities and applying ice can help reduce swelling and alleviate pain.
- Physical Therapy: Stretching and strengthening exercises can help improve flexibility and address any issues with movement or gait.
- Footwear Modifications: Wearing supportive shoes or custom orthotics can help reduce pressure on the outer foot.
- Medications: These are NSAIDs, which reduce pain and inflammation.
- Surgical Interventions: This may also be indicated in severe cases as a treatment for fractures, tendons, or nerves.
Conclusion
Pain on the outside of the foot may be the result of several different conditions. Symptoms can include mild discomfort or sharp, debilitating pain. The sooner the underlying cause of the pain is identified and treated accordingly, the sooner recovery will be. If you are experiencing chronic or severe pain in your foot, it’s best to see a medical professional who can determine a course of action for you.
For those experiencing foot pain in Scottsdale, AZ, seeking expert treatment from a professional team can help provide relief and get you back to your daily activities pain-free.