Pain on the outer side of the foot: causes and remedies

Wearing sandals, flip-flops, moccasins, and ballet flats can pose a significant problem for our foot health, especially if pain develops on the outer side of the foot. While attractive, these and other inappropriate footwear can cause inflammation and more serious problems, manifesting as pain on the outer side of the foot.

This is a common condition, yet it's often overlooked. The most common symptoms of this foot pain are swelling and redness in the affected area, resulting in difficulty walking or standing. In some cases, pain on the outside of the foot can cause a strange tingling sensation or numbness, with the pain radiating to the toes.

Possible causes of foot pain

1. Peroneal tendinitis – This Inflammation of the peroneal tendons, particularly common in athletes or those who wear inadequate footwear, can cause swelling and pain, making it impossible to practice any type of sporting activity, especially at a competitive level.
2. Peroneal subluxation – Subluxation can occur after a lateral ankle sprain. In this case, the tendon can displace from its anatomical position, causing chronic ankle instability. This is particularly common among those who practice sports such as skiing, ice skating, rugby, artistic gymnastics, basketball, and soccer. 
3. Stress fractures – Pain on the outside of the foot may be caused by microfractures of the fifth metatarsal caused by repetitive stress, typical in runners or dancers.
4. Ankle synovitis – Inflammation of the synovial membrane, the membrane that lines the inside of the joints. This condition is often the result of trauma or an inflammatory stimulus. When the membrane produces excess synovial fluid, the joint swells and becomes painful to the touch. 
5. Arthritis of the ankle – It manifests itself with severe pain and reduced range of motion in the ankle. It can be caused by an injury such as a bone fracture or dislocation. In other cases (rheumatoid arthritis), it is a symptom of an inflammatory disease in which the immune system attacks healthy cells in the body, causing inflammation or painful swelling.
6. Bursitis – This type of discomfort occurs due to inflammation of the bursa located between the Achilles tendon and the heel bone. It develops due to overpronation or oversupination of the foot, which places excessive strain on the ankle during running.
7. Morton's neuroma – This is a degenerative disease that presents itself as a burning or electric shock-like sensation that continues up the foot and up to the ankle.

Pain in the outer lateral foot: when to worry?

If pain in the outer foot is severe, accompanied by swelling or other symptoms, such as tingling or numbness, it is important to consult a doctor.

To try to relieve pain on the outside of the foot, you should first try resting the foot, applying ice or heat compresses to try to reduce the inflammation. If these home remedies for foot pain don't work, taking anti-inflammatory medications may help. In any case, it's advisable to avoid overuse and stretch regularly, choosing appropriate footwear with good lateral support.

Surgery is usually only necessary for severe fractures or irreversible subluxations.

For specialist support, book a consultation with Dr. Luigi Manzi for an accurate diagnosis and a personalized treatment plan to relieve severe pain.