Are you experiencing pain on the side of your foot? It is actually very common. Luckily, once properly diagnosed with lateral foot pain, there are ways to treat it, even in the comfort of your own home.
What is Lateral Foot Pain?
Lateral foot pain is pain on the outer side of the foot. This is oftentimes tied to cuboid syndrome, which is when the bone on the outside of the foot shifts out of place. Torn joints and ligaments typically cause the bone to shift. This can happen over time or suddenly due to an ankle sprain. Quality treatment is needed for relief.
Causes of Lateral Foot Pain
There are a few different causes of lateral foot pain such as injury to the area of the foot, an ankle sprain, or excessive traction on the bone. Also, repetitive activities such as running and jumping can cause lateral foot pain. This is why ballet dancers, runners, and athletes experience lateral foot pain often. People with flat feet also tend to suffer more with pain on the side of their foot.
Symptoms of Lateral Foot Pain
The first sign of lateral foot pain is pain on the side of the foot extending from the ankle to the toes. Lateral foot pain can also cause a limp. Tenderness, swelling, difficulty walking, and putting pressure on your foot can also be symptoms of lateral foot pain.
Diagnosis Lateral Foot Pain by a Foot Doctor in Scottsdale
Diagnosing lateral foot pain isn’t always easy. A foot doctor in Scottsdale, AZ can examine to foot, and swelling of the cuboid bone is usually a tell-tale sign.
However, for a more accurate diagnosis from your podiatrist, an MRI, CT scan, or X-ray may be needed.
Treatment for Lateral Foot Pain Approved by a Scottsdale Foot Doctor
The treatment plan for lateral foot pain depends on the severity of the pain. Usually, ice, plenty of rest, custom foot orthotics, a brace, and certain exercises can help with lateral foot pain. Elevation helps with the swelling and compression with an elastic bandage can also be helpful. In more extreme cases, other treatment options such as surgery are needed.
Before starting any exercises, always consult with a podiatrist for approval. Also, some home stretches can be done to help relieve the pain.
It takes time to strengthen your foot and ankle, so always listen to your body. Start by gently massaging your foot for relief. For a nice stretch, sit in a chair and gently pull your toes upward towards the ankle. This should help loosen any extra tension in the area.
Top Foot Doctor in Scottsdale
The Foot and Ankle Center of Arizona offers specialized care and treatment options for all types of foot and ankle pain, including lateral foot pain. After receiving the best possible care at the Foot and Ankle Center of Arizona, you will receive a comprehensive treatment plan to get you on the road to recovery.
