Pain on the side of the foot can be caused by a number of conditions, such as a stress fracture, a sprained ankle, or a ligament injury. It can also be caused by overuse or inflammation of the tendons and muscles in the foot. In some cases, the pain may be caused by a nerve problem or a medical condition such as diabetes. It’s best to see a medical professional for a proper diagnosis as there are many possible causes of pain on the side of the foot.
Common causes:
Peroneal tendonitis is an overuse injury that occurs when the peroneal tendons, which run behind the ankle bone and attach to the bones of the foot, become inflamed or irritated. The peroneal tendons are responsible for stabilizing the ankle and helping to lift the foot upward. Symptoms of peroneal tendonitis include pain and tenderness behind the ankle bone, swelling and stiffness in the ankle, and a burning or aching sensation along the peroneal tendons. It can be caused by overuse, improper footwear, or an injury to the ankle or foot. It’s best to see a medical professional for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.
Sural neuritis, also known as sural nerve entrapment, is a condition in which the sural nerve, which runs along the back of the leg and ankle, becomes compressed or irritated. This can cause pain, numbness, tingling, and weakness in the ankle and foot. The condition is often caused by overuse or injury to the ankle or foot, such as a sprained ankle, a broken bone, or a chronic condition such as diabetes. It can also occur as a result of pressure on the nerve from tight clothing or shoes, or from having a cyst or tumor in the area. It’s best to see a medical professional for proper diagnosis and treatment.
A calcaneal stress fracture is a small crack in the bone of the heel (calcaneus), usually caused by repetitive overuse or trauma. It’s a common injury in athletes, especially those who participate in running and jumping sports, as well as in military personnel, and people who are standing for long periods of time. Symptoms of a calcaneal stress fracture include pain in the heel, especially when standing or walking, swelling, and tenderness to touch. There may be also a visible bump in the area. The pain usually starts gradually, but can become severe if the fracture is not treated. It’s important to see a medical professional for proper diagnosis and treatment. Treatment typically includes rest, physical therapy and/or immobilization, and in some cases surgery may be required.