Common Causes of Side of Foot Pain - Health - Diseases and Conditions

It is not uncommon to hear people complain about foot pain. This kind of pain is upsetting, but with proper diagnosis and treatment, it can easily be treated. Whilst heel pain and toe pain are probably the most common locations for foot pain, side of foot pain is not rare, and is caused by a specific range of conditions. Side of foot pain can affect anyone, although the causes often leave women particularly susceptible, due to footwear choice.

Side of foot pain can be a stabbing sharp pain, a dull ache, or can become more intense when the weight is placed on the affected foot. There are many factors which can lead to side of foot pain, aside from a trauma to the foot which is usually, but not always, remembered by a patient. One common cause is that of improper footwear. High heels and tight shoes place an added strain on the sides of the feet and the pressure can cause bunions to form, and for the joints to be placed under greater stress.

If you suffer from arthritis and diabetes, you are more prone to side of foot pain. People with arthritis have very sensitive joints, and simple activity may be all that is needed to trigger a bout of pain. Those with diabetes have very poor circulation to the extremities, and are thus at risk of developing all manner of foot problems.

Damage to the ankle, in particular inversion sprains and fractures can cause intense pain in the side of the foot, and can make walking difficult and highly painful. Stress fractures can form in the metatarsal bones, as well as the heel and the bones of the midfoot and often produce side of foot pain.

If you can pick one side of foot pain treatment which is good for most conditions it would be the RICE method, which stands for Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation. Resting the affected foot is important because the strained tissues will be given time to heal, and the joints will be given some respite from the forces from walking. If ice is applied to the affected foot for around 15 minutes, it can reduce any swelling and inflammation, and acts as a pain killer.

Be careful if you are using commercial ice packs because they may feel too cold when placed directly on your foot. As a remedy, always place them in a plastic bag or in a towel. If the ice causes increasing pain or numbness immediately refrain from using it. To compress the affected area, you can use any bandage so long as it is not very tight. To elevate your foot, you can use a pillow and place it under your feet to raise it above the level of your hips. This can prevent any excess fluid building up.

If the pain is severe, or has not abated after resting for a few hours a visit to the doctor is advised, and also if you suspect a fracture or serious sprain as further treatment may be required. One way to prevent foot problems is by wearing proper footwear. You can consult your foot doctor for suggestions if you have an irregular waking gait, or high or low arches as to how inserts and insoles can help to correct foot function. Using high quality footwear designed for sport, will provide the necessary support and cushioning to ease the strain on the feet.

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