Sudden Foot Pain: Causes and Treatment for Side Foot Discomfort

Sudden pain on the lateral edge of the foot?

Hello Doctor: Yesterday afternoon, I suddenly felt pain in my left foot, specifically in the space between my little toe and ring toe, extending to the lateral edge and dorsum of the foot, making it difficult to apply weight on my left foot; I could only walk by placing my heel on the ground.
I can't recall any injury occurring, no bruising or sprains, yet the pain appeared suddenly, peaking last night, with occasional sensations radiating to the inner ankle.
This morning, the pain has eased somewhat, but the outer edge still hurts and I cannot apply force.
What could this situation be? How should I manage it? I have considered a few possible factors: 1.
I have been wearing sandals frequently, which have a hard sole.
2.
I often ride my bicycle.
3.
I sustained an injury to the inner ankle in a car accident about six months ago, and the doctor diagnosed it as chronic tendinitis, advising that it did not require aggressive treatment, and I have been doing rehabilitation exercises on my own.
I would appreciate any advice you could provide, thank you!

Xiao Leiting, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2005/05/22

Dr. Xu Zhaoren reply Orthopedics

It may be that the dorsal nerve of the foot or the interdigital nerve is compressed, possibly due to tight shoes or foreign objects pressing on the nerve.
It is necessary to wear looser shoes and seek outpatient examination and treatment to confirm the diagnosis.

Reply Date: 2005/05/22

More Info

Sudden foot pain, particularly in the area between the little toe and the ring finger, extending to the side and top of the foot, can be quite alarming and uncomfortable. Based on your description, there are several potential causes for this sudden discomfort, and understanding these can help guide your treatment options.

One possible cause of your pain could be nerve compression or irritation. The area you described is innervated by the lateral plantar nerve and the superficial peroneal nerve, which can become compressed due to tight footwear or prolonged pressure. Given that you mentioned wearing hard-soled sandals recently, this could be a contributing factor. Tight shoes can lead to conditions like Morton's neuroma, where the nerve between the toes becomes irritated, leading to pain and discomfort.

Another possibility is that you may be experiencing a form of tendinitis or inflammation related to your previous ankle injury. Chronic tendonitis can flare up with increased activity or changes in footwear, especially if the shoes lack proper support. The fact that you have a history of ankle injury may suggest that the surrounding structures, including tendons and ligaments, are still sensitive and may react to stress or strain.

Additionally, overuse injuries can occur from activities such as cycling, especially if your bike setup is not ergonomically correct. If your foot is positioned improperly while cycling, it can lead to strain on the muscles and tendons of the foot, resulting in pain.

To address your current situation, here are some recommendations:
1. Rest and Ice: Initially, it's essential to rest the affected foot and avoid activities that exacerbate the pain. Applying ice to the painful area for 15-20 minutes several times a day can help reduce inflammation and numb the pain.

2. Footwear: Consider switching to more supportive footwear. Avoid hard-soled sandals and opt for shoes with cushioning and arch support. This can help alleviate pressure on the affected areas.

3. Stretching and Strengthening: Gentle stretching of the foot and ankle can help relieve tension. Strengthening exercises for the foot muscles can also be beneficial, especially if you have a history of foot issues.

4. Over-the-Counter Pain Relief: Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen can help manage pain and reduce inflammation.

5. Physical Therapy: If the pain persists, consider consulting a physical therapist. They can provide targeted exercises and treatments to address any underlying issues, such as muscle imbalances or improper biomechanics.

6. Medical Evaluation: If your symptoms do not improve with conservative measures, it may be wise to seek a medical evaluation. A healthcare professional can perform a physical examination and may recommend imaging studies, such as X-rays or an MRI, to rule out any structural issues.

In summary, sudden foot pain can arise from various causes, including nerve compression, tendonitis, or overuse injuries. By resting, modifying your footwear, and possibly seeking professional guidance, you can effectively manage your symptoms and work towards recovery. If the pain continues or worsens, do not hesitate to seek further medical advice.

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