Lower Leg, Ankle & Foot Injuries/Conditions

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Outer foot pain

Printed From: CyberPT - Your Online Physical Therapy Resource
Category: Patient Forum
Forum Name: Lower Leg, Ankle & Foot Injuries/Conditions
Forum Description: Patients can post questions and experiences about lower leg, ankle & foot injuries/conditions.
URL: http://www.cyberpt.com/ptforum/forum_posts.asp?TID=829
Printed Date: Nov 22 2024 at 8:14am
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Topic: Outer foot pain

Posted By: gdwtch
Subject: Outer foot pain
Date Posted: Mar 20 2011 at 8:49am

Background: I have been alternating running with cross-country skiing this past winter, depending on snow conditions. Now that the snow is gone, I've been running more - up to 12 miles/week, typically 4 miles each session. I typically run 10 minute miles.

I was doing fine until last Tuesday. After returning from my run, the outside of my foot started to hurt. Wednesday, I could walk only with difficulty. Thursday, it felt better, so I decided to go for a bike ride, which didn't bother it at all thanks to the stiff-soled bike shoes. Friday, I rode again and the pain was nearly gone.

Unfortunately Saturday and Sunday the pain has returned and seems to be getting worse, just from walking around the house, gardening, etc.

I'm guessing this is a problem involving the peroneal tendons, just from the location of the pain (between the pinky toe and ankle, radiating slightly up the calf). Any suggestions for recovery that would still allow me to maintain some level of fitness? Just laying off everything doesn't seem to be helping.

The obvious choice is biking, but it's gotten too cold for that again. I would like to run again, but I'm sure it will make the problem worse. BTW, I'm taking Motrin (600 mg twice a day) and trying to keep ice on the foot.

Thanks for any advice you can give.

Replies:

Posted By: Ask a PT
Date Posted: Mar 23 2011 at 1:52pm

From what you describe of where the pain is located, it could very well be involvement of the peroneals. Running on uneven surfaces or at a sideways incline/decline could contribute to irritation to this area and the tendons.

Sounds like you are doing the right things as far as management goes. For my patients, I usually recommend activity to tolerance so as not to exacerbate the condition. The elliptical and swimming are other alternatives besides biking. When I see a patient, I like to be able to figure out what may be contributing to their condition, ie. poor footwear, uneven surfaces, training error, strength deficits (ankle, knee, hip, core, etc), range of motion deficits, biomechanical issues, joint mobility issues, etc. Unless the contributing factor can be determined, patients seem to continue to experience the condition.

Posted By: gdwtch
Date Posted: Mar 23 2011 at 9:02pm

Thanks for the tip. I had not thought about the elliptical -- that seems like a good idea since it would minimize foot flex and not require me to really stabilize. Swimming isn't an option -- no pool.

The weather here has gone back to hell in a handbasket -- snow again, so biking is definitely out and a gym-based option is definitely in! If I can't get it under control, I'll seek out a PT who can look at the contributing factors.

Thanks!