Contact Us To Make An Appointment
If you believe you have injured your peroneal tendon, we can help you get to the bottom of your injury and find an effective treatment to get back on your feet. Call Carolina Hand & Sports Medicine at 828-253-7521 to make an appointment.
Noticeincorrectly/data/57/5/78/132/5241947/user/6289480/htdocs/wp-includes/functions.php4204
Contact Us
Pain On Outside Of Foot: 8 Things That Might Be Causing It
Having pain that runs along the outside of your foot can end up affecting your mobility, making it painful or difficult to walk or stand.
There are multiple conditions that can present as a painful sensation along the outside of your foot, so how do you know which one is causing you trouble?
The best way to get a proper diagnosis would be to have a doctors visit.
But, in this article, we will cover some of the most common causes of pain on the outside of the foot, to help you get an idea of what might be going on.
Does Your Foot Hurt Here: The Outside Of The Foot
Why does my foot hurt here? You may be asking yourself this common question whether you have had an injury or simply developed pain. Pain can be common on the outside of the foot in this location. There are several reasons pain can manifest along the lateral border of your foot. Common foot problems seen in this area tend to be Jones fractures and related stress fractures, peroneal tendonitis, and bursitis. Letâs dive deeper into each of these pathologies.
Jones Fractures
Jones fractures are a common fracture often brought on by injury and falling on the outside of the foot. This was named after the physician Dr. Robert Jones who described the injury in the 1900âs after sustaining one himself. The fracture occurs at the base of the fifth metatarsal. Sometimes these problems begin with a mild soreness before more significant pain develops. This is because they can be associated with stress to the foot. This area tends to have a paucity of blood supply causing these injuries to not heal very readily and sometimes not heal at all. These fractures will usually present with pain that comes on with walking traditionally, increased activity, or there truly is a twist of the foot and ankle onto the outside of the foot. Commonly, people will have pain and swelling, but in some cases, its pain and no swelling. Experiencing any ongoing pain in this area is worth an evaluation given the problems with healing.
Tendonitis
Bursitis
We Are Here to Help
Also Check: How To Tape Sprained Ankle
Symptoms That Accompany Ankle Pain
While ankle pain when walking is a clear indicator that somethings wrong, its just one of the symptoms and it will, most likely, be accompanied by others. For instance:
- Limited range of motion
- Swelling and bruising
If any or all of these follow a bad step, chances are that youve sprained your ankle. While foot and ankle conditioning can reduce the risk, theres no way to be 100% safe. Does this mean that conditioning your ankles is useless? Of course not. Every bit helps and other than just strengthening these muscles, youll also increase your balancing .
Treating Outside Ankle Pain Without Surgery
If a family physician or orthopedic surgeon had discovered this particular patients loose and torn ligaments, surgery would have likely been the solution however, surgery should only be a last resort for the most extreme ligament issues. Why? Research suggests that ligament surgery is unable to restore normal motion in the foot and ankle and foot, meaning the ankle never really works like it did before the damage occurred. The abnormal biomechanics created in the ankle by the surgery can cause even more problems as other parts of the leg try to compensate for the improper motion.
Outside ankle pain can be treated without surgery by an interventional orthopedics physician. Loose or torn ligaments usually can be treated nonsurgically with ultrasound-guided high-dose platelet-rich plasma injections .
While loose or torn ligaments is a common issue causing outside ankle pain, keep in mind that the pain could also stem from a tendon or nerve problem. The key is to work with your interventional orthopedics physician so he or she can use the proper tools to help diagnose the root cause of your pain. Ligaments, nerves, or tendons, there is likely a nonsurgical regenerative medicine solution for your outside ankle pain.
Also Check: Cute Orthopedic Shoes For Women
How Can I Walk With Peroneal Tendonitis
The hip, knee, and ankle are kept strong and flexible. Selecting the right footwear for running and walking activities. Slowly increasing your walking and running mileage. Gradually adding hills and terrain to your training. These are just a few of the things you can do to improve your health and fitness.
Diagnosis For Ankle Pain When Walking
A doctor or podiatrist can diagnose your ankle pain if youre experiencing any symptoms. First, a physician will record your history hear your concerns examine your ankle and look for swelling, pain, or bruising. They may order an imaging test such as an X-ray, CT scan, or MRI scan. These tests will show images of your bone and surrounding tissues and may better reveal any damage. If your doctor believes you have an infection causing your sudden ankle pain, you may also need a biopsy. A biopsy removes a tissue sample and sends it to a lab to identify bacteria.
You May Like: Bunions On Side Of Foot
Inflaming Your Ankle Support
You can injure these particular tendons several different ways, including through ankle sprains. Peroneal tendinitis, however, is an overuse issue. Anyone can develop it, though its particularly common for athletes and generally active people.
These tendons have to glide against the bony protrusion on the outside of your ankle whenever they are used. With intense or repetitive activities, this motion can lead to irritating wear and tear in the connective tissue. You develop uncomfortable inflammation and swelling around the tendons. This makes it increasingly painful for you to be active and keep your ankle stable. It can also affect your ability to adjust to uneven ground when you stand or walk. Typically, the pain increases when youre active and will decrease at least somewhat when you rest.
What Are The Risks Of Peroneal Tendonitis Surgery
Like all surgeries, ankle surgery for peroneal tendonitis does carry some risks such as:
- Allow for rest between workouts, games or other physical activity.
- Stretch to warm up your feet and ankles before physical activity.
- Use ankle braces, supportive shoes or other appropriate protective equipment.
- Wear orthotics if you have high arches, but only if recommended by your healthcare provider.
You May Like: How To Put On Ankle Brace
How Long Does It Take Peroneal Tendonitis To Heal
Peroneal tendinitis generally takes 6-8 weeks to improve and early activity on a healing tendon can result in a set back in recovery. It can be very frustrating for patients when non-compliance can double the recovery time. Aggressive conservative treatment is recommended to prevent further damage to the tendon.
Outer Ankle Pain Treatments: Non
Depending on the nature and severity of your outer ankle pain, there are a variety of conservative non-surgical treatment options, as well as surgical options.
- Anti-inflammatory medications such as aspirin or ibuprofen to reduce swelling
- Physical therapy to strengthen muscles and restore range of motion
- Use an ankle brace or custom orthotics
- Steroid injections
If conservative treatments prove ineffective, surgery may be a suitable course of action.
Our foot surgeons in Waukesha and Milwaukee area may use surgery to:
- Remove loose bone fragments
- Repair and rebuild ligaments
- Transfer tendons
After ankle surgery, be sure to follow all instructions from our Waukesha foot doctor to ensure you heal completely. Do not resume sports activity until cleared by your physician.
Most foot surgeries can be done on an outpatient basis. Some use arthroscopic techniques, others require open surgery. Ankle surgery recovery time can take 6 to 10 weeks for proper healing.
The Foot Doctors Waukesha, WI and Surrounding Areas Trust for Accurate Diagnosis and Highly Effective Treatment Options
Our foot doctors in Waukesha area and Milwaukee accurately diagnose the source of your outer ankle pain, as well as provide a variety of surgical and non-surgical treatment options, including MLS laser therapy.
If you have chronic or severe ankle pain turn to the foot doctors Waukesha, WI and surrounding areas trust for accurate diagnosis, highly effective treatment methods and unparalleled patient care.
You May Like: Advanced Foot And Ankle Of Wisconsin
How Is Peroneal Tendonitis Diagnosed
Peroneal tendonitis can be difficult to diagnose. The symptoms are similar to those of other foot and ankle problems, like sprains, arthritis and fractures. One study suggests that out of 40 people with peroneal tendonitis, about 60% were initially misdiagnosed.
Your healthcare provider will perform a physical exam and review your symptoms, though. They may palpate on certain parts of your foot and ankle to check for swelling or tenderness. Your provider might also ask you to perform certain ankle movements to evaluate the range of motion in the joint.
Sometimes imaging is necessary to make sure you dont have a foot fracture, osteoarthritis, cartilage damage or torn tissue. Your provider might recommend an X-ray, MRI, CT scan or ultrasound, as well.
How To Fix It
And we can tighten loose ligaments without surgery now using advanced interventional orthopedics, or Platelet-Rich Plasma injections performed under precise ultrasound guidance. We can help tighten these ligaments. So to find more information about how this is done and to find a Provider near you, see Regenexx.com. Thanks so much for listening and have a great day.
Recommended Reading: Best Shoes After Foot Surgery
Outer Ankle Pain Causes
- Nerve damage in the ankle
- Torn or inflamed tendon
- Arthritis of the ankle joint
- Bone fracture in the ankle joint
- Inflammation of the joint lining
- Scar tissue in the ankle after a sprain
Outer ankle pain can be severe, sharp or dull and constant. It can be difficult to bear weight and ankle instability is often an issue. Patients with outside ankle pain often experience swelling, stiffness and tenderness.
Symptoms Of Peroneal Tendonitis
Immediate symptoms of peroneal tendonitis include pain and swelling in the ankle. If the pain does not subside with rest you may need to be evaluated for peroneal tendonitis. Other symptoms of peroneal tendonitis include:
- Tenderness behind the ankle bone
- Pain the first thing in the morning when you wake up
You May Like: How To Make Your Ankle Stop Hurting
Schedule An Appointment With Arizona Foot Doctors For Relief From Ankle Pain When Walking
Dont walk through your ankle pain. Book an appointment online with Arizona Foot Doctors to find relief. With over 30 years of experience, we prioritize our patients health and make sure theyre comfortable and well-cared for during their visit. We take a conservative approach to all podiatric issues with our patients interests at heart. Find the relief youre looking for at our Scottsdale, AZ clinic.
Reasons For Outer Ankle Pain
by Dr. Robert J. Spencer | Jul 6, 2016 | Uncategorized
One of the fun things to do in Orange County in the summer is to head to Huntington Beach for movies displayed on a huge, inflatable, outdoor movie screen with the latest in picture and sound technology. On July 16, you could take a picnic supper , watch the sunset, and then enjoy Raiders of the Lost Ark. Just be careful when you are stumbling back to your car lateryou dont want to end up with an ankle sprain or other injury!
Sprains are just one of the possible reasons for outer ankle pain. Twisting your ankle stretches the ligaments too far and can even tear them. If the sprain doesnt heal well, pain can become chronic, and weak tissues can make the ankle unstable and prone to future injuries. Besides ligament damage, here are some other common causes of ankle pain on the outside of your foot:
So take care this summer! If you are out and about and start feeling pain at the outside of your ankle, call Southern California Foot & Ankle Specialists and let us take a look at it. Treating the problem in the early stages may save you a lot of grief in the months and years to come. You can reach our office in Ladera Ranch at 364-9255 , or schedule your visit online, and head off disabling ankle pain before it takes hold.
About
Our practice treats all foot and ankle problems in infants, children, and adults. It is conveniently located in Ladera Ranch, CA.
Location
You May Like: Premier Podiatry & Orthopedics Carmichael Ca
Why Is My Ankle Hurting
Ankle pain is one of the most common injuries that people experience. In fact, one study estimated that there are about two million cases of ankle injuries each year, so if youre experiencing ankle pain, youre far from alone. However, if youre over the age of 65, play sports, carry extra weight, or are obese, you are more at risk of encountering ankle pain. Ankle pain most commonly flares up when walking and when shifting weight to the ankle. At times, the pain may be severe enough that it impairs the ability to walk or stand. Here are some common causes of ankle pain:
How Do You Treat A Torn Lateral Ankle Ligament
Treatment of lateral ankle ligament sprain Phase 1 includes rest from sport, compression, and regular icing to limit swelling. Phase 2 includes range of motion exercises, stretching, and calf strengthening. Phase 3 involves complex exercises and gradual return to running and change of direction activity.
Don’t Miss: Ankle Pain In The Morning
What Causes Foot Pain On The Side Of Your Foot
Lateral foot pain can make it difficult to participate in daily activities even something as simple as walking or standing. Situations affecting the outside of the foot and ankle can cause pain due to a number of factors, such as joint or tendon inflammation, arthritis, pinched nerves or the presence of fine cracks in the bones.
If left untreated, these conditions can worsen, leading to larger problems such as an ankle sprain, cuboid syndrome, peroneal tendonitis and even a stress fracture.
How Is Peroneal Tendonitis Treated
Conservative treatments usually help relieve tendon pain and inflammation within three to four weeks. Recovery might take longer if tendonitis is the result of another injury, such as a sprain.
Common treatments for peroneal tendonitis include:
- Bracing: An ankle brace can support and stabilize your ankle if you have to perform certain movements, like running or jumping.
- Immobilization: You might need a soft cast or boot to immobilize your foot and take weight off your tendons so they can heal.
- Medication:Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs can reduce pain and inflammation. In some cases, your provider might recommend steroid injections around the tendon itself, into the tendon sheath.
- Physical therapy: Physical therapists guide you through exercises and stretches to regain strength and flexibility in your foot and ankle. Your therapist might also recommend ice, heat or ultrasound therapy.
- RICE method: You can perform RICE at home. Rest by avoiding strenuous activities. Apply an ice pack or cold compress to your ankle for 20 minutes every two hours. Wrap your ankle in a compression bandage to reduce swelling and keep your ankle elevated, preferably above the level of your heart.
Recommended Reading: Best Orthopedic Dog Beds For Senior Dogs
Is Walking Good For Ankle Tendonitis
Try to avoid standing, walking, or running when you first notice the pain in your ankle, because it is a weight-bearing joint. Lifting heavy objects is one activity that may have contributed to the injury. You may be able to reduce the severity of your pain by taking pain medication. If you are unable to take pain medications, you may need to see a doctor who specializes in treating ankle sprains.
Are Nerve Conditions Causing Your Foot Pain
In some cases, pain on the side of your foot or through your arch could be nerve related. This could be due to nerve conditions such as:
- Mortons Neuroma- Mortons neuroma is an inflamed nerve condition that occurs on the bottom of the foot, just behind the 3rd and 4th toes.
- Pinched Nerve- Nerve entrapment, such as tarsal tunnel syndrome, can be caused by trauma or excessive pressure. If nerves get irritated, patients can experience spontaneous burning, shooting or stabbing pain, even while at rest.
- Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy- Approximately 1 in 4 people with diabetes will experience neuropathy which can cause pain and numbness in the feet. Numbness of the feet does increase the risk of falling.
You May Like: Best Way To Treat Athlete’s Foot
Do You Have Peroneal Tendonitis Here Is How To Fix It
John Davis
As runners, we accept that there is a certain amount of risk involved with our sport. When we are well into our , Hooked On Trail Running, or a first 5k, we hear about the high injury rates. And know that there is a good chance we will end up as one of the many injured runners.
We expect that maybe we will end up with Runners Knee or Achilles Tendonitis. But what if your pain does not seem to fit into any of the usual categories. And when you search for running injuries, the sore spot and tender area just does not seem to match anything.
Peroneal tendonitis, also referred to as peroneal tendinopathy, is a rare but aggravating injury. It can cause pain in the outside of your foot. And up the outside of your lower leg when you run.
Treatment Options For Peroneal Tendon Injuries
Most peroneal tendon injuries can be treated successfully through non-surgical methods, including:
- Activity modification to exercise that rests the ankle, such as swimming or biking
- Immobilization of the joint with a brace or splint to allow tendons to heal
- Anti-inflammatory medications, such as ibuprofen or naproxen
- Physical therapy to improve strength, flexibility, and range of motion of the ankle and lower leg
Recommended Reading: Ankle Vs Low Cut Socks