Heel pain, ball of foot pain, and even arch pain are all common complaints we see here at Podiatry Center of New Jersey. But what about when you feel pain at the edges of your feet? Whether it’s the outer or inner side, persistent pain along the edge can indicate various foot and ankle conditions. Continue reading to learn about what could be causing this sensation.
Peroneal Tendonitis
Peroneal Tendonitis is a frequent culprit that involves tears of the peroneal tendons that run along the outside of your ankle and foot. This usually occurs after an ankle sprain, from overuse in activities with repetitive ankle motion, or if your high arch puts extra strain on these tendons. You’ll typically feel pain along the outside of your ankle and foot that worsens with exercise.
Stress Fractures
Another cause of outer edge pain might be a stress fracture of the metatarsal. These tiny cracks develop from repetitive stress, a sudden increase in physical activity, or sometimes after rolling your ankle. Pain worsens with activity but improves with rest, and the area might be tender to the touch.
Ankle Sprains
Ankle sprains are acute injuries that cause immediate pain, swelling, and bruising on the outer side where the ligaments are stretched past their limits. While the primary location is the ankle joint, the pain often extends to the outer edge of the foot.
Cuboid Syndrome
Less commonly, Cuboid Syndrome can cause outer midfoot pain. This happens when this small bone on the outer edge of your midfoot becomes slightly displaced. It can occur after an ankle sprain or from repetitive strain and leads to pain that worsens with standing.
Tailor’s Bunion
Like a regular bunion, but of the pinky toe, this deformity causes pain, redness, and swelling at the pinky toe joint, often due to wearing narrow shoes that rub this area.
Posterior Tibial Tendon Dysfunction
Discomfort on the inner edge of the foot usually points to issues with your arch, and tearing the PTT is a leading cause. This inflammation of the main tendon that supports your arch is caused by overuse, injury, or flat feet. You’ll feel pain along the inner ankle, swelling, and, if it’s advanced, a flattening of the arch.
Accessory Navicular Syndrome
This occurs when an extra bone or piece of cartilage is present on the inner side of the foot, right below the ankle. This extra bone can rub against or pull on the posterior tibial tendon and cause pain and tenderness.
Plantar Fasciitis
While plantar fasciitis is primarily a heel pain, if the inflammation is severe or involves the arch, the pain can sometimes radiate to the inner edge of the foot.
If you have more questions about foot care or want to address specific concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out to the expert team at Podiatry Center of New Jersey! Give us a call at (973) 925-4111 or make an appointment online.
