Pain on the Outside of the Foot Near Your Little Toe

Last updated on March 12th, 2024 at 11:43 am

I see many patients who complain of a nagging pain on the outside edge of their foot, right around the base of their smallest toe. If you’re one of those people, you’re not alone. This type of pain can be perplexing and frustrating because it’s not always easy to figure out where it’s stemming from.

Let’s explore some of the common causes for this discomfort, how to find relief, and when to seek professional help.

Potential Causes

Tailor’s Bunion (Bunionette): The most frequent culprit for this type of pain is a condition called a Tailor’s bunion. Similar to the more familiar bunion on the big toe joint, a Tailor’s bunion is a bony prominence that develops on the outside of the foot at the base of the little toe. The name “Tailor’s bunion” stems from the historical practice of tailors sitting cross-legged, putting pressure on that area of the foot. These bony bumps are often caused by an inherited structural issue in the foot or wearing tight, constricting shoes.
Stress Fracture: Tiny cracks or breaks in the bone, known as stress fractures, can occur due to repetitive stress on your feet, like running or engaging in high-impact sports. These usually feel like a deep ache worsened by activity.
Arthritis: Wear-and-tear arthritis (osteoarthritis) or inflammatory types like rheumatoid arthritis can affect the joints in your foot, including the ones near your little toe. Watch for stiffness, swelling, and pain that increases with activity.
Neuroma: When a nerve in the ball of your foot becomes thickened and irritated, it forms a neuroma. This can cause sharp, burning, tingling, or numbness, along with pain radiating into the toes.
Cuboid Syndrome: The cuboid bone, found on the outer part of your foot, may experience partial dislocation or become stuck. This creates pain on the outside of the foot, potentially worsening with weight-bearing.

Symptoms to Watch For

The type of pain and accompanying symptoms help narrow down what’s going on with your foot. Here are some signs to consider:

Location: Is the pain right at the base of your little toe, along the outside edge of your foot, or more in the forefoot?
Type of Pain: Is it a dull ache, a sharp pain, or burning and tingling?
Aggravating Factors: Does the pain worsen with wearing shoes, standing, or walking?
Swelling and Redness: Do you notice visible swelling or redness around the painful area?

At-Home Remedies: Self-Care Tips

Before rushing to the doctor, try these strategies to relieve your foot pain:

Rest and Ice: Take breaks from activities that worsen the pain, and apply ice packs to the sore area for 15-20 minutes a few times a day.
Over-the-counter Pain Relief: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen or naproxen can help.
Comfortable Footwear: Ditch your tight, high-heeled shoes and replace them with roomier, supportive shoes with a wider toe box.
Shoe Inserts: Over-the-counter or customized orthotic inserts can change how weight is distributed on your foot, easing pressure on the affected area.
Padding: Use moleskin or padding around a Tailor’s bunion to minimize friction when wearing shoes.

When to See a Podiatrist

If your pain doesn’t improve in a couple of weeks, it’s definitely time to see a podiatrist! We specialize in diagnosing and treating foot-related issues. During your appointment, expect the following:

Medical History: We’ll look for underlying health conditions or prior injuries contributing to your problem.
Physical Examination: We’ll carefully analyze your foot structure, gait, and range of motion.
Imaging: X-rays, ultrasounds, or MRIs might be ordered for a closer look at your bones and soft tissues.

Treatment: A Customized Approach

Your treatment plan depends strongly on the underlying cause of your pain. Your podiatrist might recommend the following:

Physical Therapy: To strengthen supporting muscles
Corticosteroid Injections: For inflammation and pain
Custom Orthotics: For long-term foot support
Surgery: Rarely, to correct severe structural problems

Conclusion

Don’t let pain on the outside of your foot sideline your life. It’s best to pinpoint the cause of your pain quickly to avoid the problem worsening and to allow for the most effective treatment. Whether it’s a simple at-home strategy or a visit to your podiatrist for a comprehensive approach, help is available. Take steps to address this discomfort and get back to activities without your feet holding you back! Good luck!

FAQs

Is a Tailor’s bunion serious?

While not usually dangerous, a Tailor’s bunion can be very painful and make it difficult to wear shoes comfortably. If left untreated, it can worsen over time.

Can I prevent this kind of pain from happening again?

Yes! Choosing proper footwear with ample room around the toes can significantly reduce your risk. Orthotics and foot strengthening exercises might also be helpful in specific cases.

What happens if I ignore the pain?

The pain may worsen, and the problem could become more complicated to treat. Additionally, you might change your gait to avoid the pain, which can lead to problems in other parts of your body.

Will I need surgery?

Most cases don’t require surgery. Conservative treatments are usually very effective. Surgery is only considered in severe instances where other options fail.

How long does recovery typically take?

Recovery time varies depending on the cause and treatment. With self-care and rest, many conditions resolve within a few weeks. More complex cases might require a longer recovery process.