Not what you're looking for? CLICK HERE INSTEAD

Bump on side of left foot

by Carrie
(Round Rock, Texas, USA)

Bump on Foot

I am a 35 year old female. I have what appears to be a cyst on the side of my foot... just diagonal from my ankle. I actually had a cyst on the same foot about 12 years ago... it was above my big toe and I had it surgically removed. So, I thought that surely this is what I'm dealing with again. I have been to my general practitioner who agreed with me that it may be a cyst... she sent me to the podiatrist who said, yes, it appeared to be a ganglion cyst and that we could schedule to have it removed. We decided to wait until after I got back from vacation. Then... after the "cysyt being there for nearly 2 months with no change in size or shape or anything else... 4 days after the appointment with the podiatrist is just disappeared. It was completely gone... no bump and not even a twinge of pain. It was completely gone for 2 full weeks. Then it started to come back. The first time it just appeared and stayed that way. But, this time... it took nearly 2 weeks to get in the state that it is currently in (see picture). There would be a bump one day and then it would go down. It would be soft at times and hard at other times. It would even go down some with massage. Now it's causing pain again and instead of just one bump it is now one main bump and a smaller secondary bump right next to it. I do work out regularly... step aerobics and other cardio 3 to 4 times a week (and hour each time)... I'm wondering if the impact has anything to do with this. Also.. there was no change in my regular activities between when the cyst was there and the time it was gone and now. Could it still be a cyst? Or is it something different? I will probably go back to the podiatrist again... but, we're in the middle of soccer season with 3 kids playing soccer... so, it may have to wait a few weeks before I have the time to go in. I am hoping to find some possible answers before then... or at least some possibilities. Thank you.

Hi Carrie,
I would certainly think your activity has something to do with the varying size of the cyst. Before I would have it removed surgically, I would have it drained and then see if it recurs.
Marc Mitnick DPM

Comments for Bump on side of left foot

Average Rating

Click here to add your own comments

Aug 22, 2018
Rating

by: Dr. Mitnick

More thoughts on....

bump on side of foot

Most bumps on the side of the foot are more bone in nature then soft tissue masses.

They can occur on the inside or outside of the foot or both feet.

Similar appearing bumps on each foot will usually be bone in nature, while a bump on the side of one foot that it is not present on the other foot, will tend to be a soft tissue mass. Keep in mind there are exceptions to this rule.

Many of these bumps can be painless. When painful, bumps on the side of the foot will generally hurt from shoe pressure.

To further muddy the waters, soft tissue masses such as bursal sacs (bursitis) can "grow" over bony prominences. A typical example of this would be a bunion. If you press over a bony prominence and there is a spongy feel to it, then there is a good chance there is also a soft tissue mass.

Bumps that appear spontaneously, whether they hurt or not, should be examined by a doctor.

Jul 20, 2017
Rating

Painful foot
by: Pam

This may be a late comment about a foot that is painful when you first get up in the morning or after sitting for awhile.
A few years ago I experienced the same thing. It was Plantar Faciitis.
The Podiatrist fitted me with orthotics and within a couple days all was well. It is sometimes helped with an anti-inflammatory.
Hope this helps.

Dec 20, 2016
Rating

Bump on side of foot...
by: Noelle

I am thinking you might have what is called a piezogenic papule.
A piezogenic papule is a pressure induced herniation of the
subcutaneous fat protruding through the fascial lining of the heel.
Commonly they are harmless; they are found in athletic and younger
people, women more than men; and they can also be found in people who are obese. These types of papules are not hereditary and are
found in people who are prone to long periods of standing. It
happens due to a defect in the facile lining of the foot. Found this
information at my dermatologist today as she diagnosed me with
one. If it is causing you pain you can have it injected with a steroid
and numbing combination to ease the discomfort and to possibly
break it down a bit. Other options...surgically excised, which doesn't
sound easy! Hope this helps.

May 29, 2011
Rating

Bump on side of left foot as well
by: Dave

Hi,

I read your post about the bump... since I have the same bump on the same foot. Like you I exercise and noticed it the other day. it hurts slightly, but only because I have pushed on it since noticing it.

So did you end up having it removed?

Cheers

Nov 17, 2009
Rating

Bump on center, and side of left foot
by: Anonymous

I have the same kind of pain where it hurts more when I first wake up and stand... I was told by others that is a bone spur, but I was also told edema can do the same and cause an actual large fluid filled lump... which I also have.. I was worried whether it was hematoma or Edema but my dad has edema and said it sounds like and appears to be edema.. I have not yet been to the doc but I think I have both bone spurs and heel spurs, and edema..

Nov 17, 2009
Rating

Edema/ cyst/ foot pain
by: April

I have the same kind of pain where it hurts more when I first wake up and stand... I was told by others that is a bone spur, but I was also told edema can do the same and cause an actual large fluid filled lump... which I also have.. I was worried whether it was hematoma or Edema but my dad has edema and said it sounds like and appears to be edema.. I have not yet been to the doc but I think I have both bone spurs and heel spurs, and edema..

Feb 24, 2009
Rating

hi,
by: kristy

Good luck,
hope it goes away soon.

Oct 20, 2008
Rating

Similar "Foot Bump" Case
by: Kellie

Hi Carrie,
I was amazed to find your post as I have nearly the exact same symptoms, bump on the side of my right foot, etc. I'm 42 & teach fitness classes, (step aerobics, weight conditioning, etc.) I have not yet been to the Dr. about this but due to increased pain recently, I have thought I probably will make an appt. I was just wondering if you experience more pain when you first hit the floor in the morning and after you've been sitting for awhile & then stand. This is the case w/me. Like you, we are busy with three kids' activities, and I thought I might just wait to see if this subsides before going to the Dr. I also have a ganglion cyst on my wrist, which I had drained by a surgeon once, but it returned within a month, so I have now just left it alone. It usually doesn't bother me too much. I'm hoping that's what this is on my foot and that it will also become less painful soon.

Hope yours goes away for good soon!

Thanks,
Kellie

Click here to add your own comments

Return to Ask the doctor.

MY PRODUCT RECOMMENDATIONS(items I prescribe in the office)

Orthotics for multiple types of foot pain best buy in a pre-made orthotic click link below

Orthotics for heel and arch pain for those who must wear dress shoes click link below

HONESTe Online Member Seal
Click to verify - Before you buy!

I've been doing some aggressive research lately (it's how I found your incredible website) and realize now that my symptoms are not consistant with the diagnosis.

Jennifer

Hunterville, NC

….after reviewing your amazing site (great for the avg. jill). So thank you very much!!!

Liesbeth

NY

I am really, really impressed with your plain-speak explanations for the various conditions.

Jacqueline

NJ

This was an extremely helpful site. I have an appointment on the 18th and your info. Was right on target…..

Jack

Fla

A well organized site containing much information written in a manner that the average reader can comprehend.

Jean

Ontario, Canada

I found your website and articles most interesting.

Andrew

Fla.

Thank you for a quick response. I think your site is the best information site on foot pain and I have viewed many.

Judy

(location unknown)

I came to your website, footspecialist.net via www.foot-pain explained .com which I think is also your website? I thought explanations for different types of problems were well addressed and thoughtfully stated for the patient in mind.

L.W.

New York

You have an amazing and extremely informative site. I enjoyed looking through all of the data and stats.

Yvette

Memphis, TN

Thanks again so much for the information in the article. Very interesting.

Anna

Scotland

Great article. I have had plantar fasciitis since I was in high school……..

J. Simmons

(location unknown)

Dear Dr. Mitnick, The orthotics arrived four days ago and I slipped them into my shoes immediately. I was skeptical as to the usefulness of the item, they really didn't look very exotic. I have to say though, after using them for just four days, I have experienced grand relief from my foot pain. Even the very first day, I was able to do a lot of work while on my feet with at least a 75% reduction of pain. It has only gotten better every day, and I go nowhere without my shoes with the orthotics. I had been experiencing extreme heel and sole pain for about six months and had to take extended breaks off my feet many times a day as well as regular doses of Ibuprofen. Since getting the orthotics, my life has returned to normal and I feel good again. Just wanted to say thanks for the recommendation for a very effective item, I had no idea what a change this item could affect.

Yours truly,

J.C. Forbes

Tennessee

Thanks for the Response, you hit it on the head.

Steve

Redondo Beach, CA

Thank you for your time and expertise in answering my question…..

LH

(location unknown)

First, thanks for putting together this website. Its the most informative site I have found dealing with foot problems. Last June I started having pain and swelling at …….

Joe

(location unknown)

First of all, thank you for having all this useful information available in one place. I've been through most of your website and based on my research, pain and evaluations I think I've narrowed things down quite a bit.

Pete M.

(location unknown)

Thank you for the best site I have found when researching foot pain.

Glenda B.

Madison, Alabama

Thanks for replying so quickly. I was a bit concerned. I think your website is great, and chock full of info.....

Carol

Denison, TX

Dr. Marc, Thank you so much for your reply which seemed to be right on. I have researched many sites but you put me on the right path to the possible answer. My foot pain may not rule the rest of my life after all! I believe I'll make a sign that reads, "THE END IS NEAR!" Thanks Very Much,

Dawn

West lafayette, IN

Dear sir...no doubt you get positive comments re your site...May I please be added to the list of your admirers. In all of my years of web surfing I would say your site is right there with the very best. Thank you for taking the time to write the terrific info you provide and for putting things into laymen terms for us mere mortals. I pray you have much on going success and thank you again for a deed well done. As for me I did not find much help for my symptoms and will continue on my quest. Were you anywhere in the South I would make and appointment...Thanks again dear sir...m.e.

Michael E.

Tampa, Florida 33624

Hi. This is a great site! I'm a healthy middle aged woman who is in good health, but.....

Kelly

Texas

Just a wee word of thanks for your wonderful website...It is a terrific service...Thank you for providing your knowledge and help...With highest regards, m ebeling

Michael D. Ebeling

Tampa, Florida 33624

Thanks for a most interesting website, which has helped a lot.

Steve

Dear Dr.Mitnick

I usually do my research on the Mayo clinic website. I think your website is the most informative site I have found when researching foot pain.

I thank you for putting together this incredible website.

Regards,

Dragica W.

Edmonton,Canada

....I have been told that it is not hard enough to be cut off. Please help, I am not sure what to do now! THANKS FOR A WONDERFUL AND VERY HELPFUL SITE!

Roxy

South Africa

You have an unusually clear, informative and well-written website for laypersons. Thank you for that.

Matthew W.

Mansfield Ctr, CT

First, I'd like to thank you for all the information that you provide on your website and the opportunity to write to you.

Steve

Placentia, California

First, I want to let you know that you have the best web site I've found related to foot issues. (The only thing I had difficulty finding was the "ask a question" page.)

Unknown

Unknown location

I received the orthotics Monday afternoon and began wearing them Tuesday. After two days I would say that I have noticed a huge improvement in the discomfort I have been experiencing. My foot feels better than it has in months.

Ric J.

Unknown location

I greatly admire someone like you who would donate and dedicate so much time and effort to helping strangers with no compensation. Truly, it is uncommonly kind. And your site is so intelligently arranged.

Ron R.

Pacific Grove, CA

I used to work for a podiatrist (front desk) back during summers in college years ago, so I know the benefits of good care. Again, I want to thank you for an EXCELLENT website. It was so great to get to your site (top of google search) and actually find all the answers I needed EASILY and QUICKLY! Clearly you put a ton of work into it and I really appreciate it.

All the best,

Victoria

Alameda, California

By the way, millions of websites could use yours as a guideline on how to organize information and make the site user-friendly. Kudos to you!

Anonymous

Thank you for your very interesting and informative site!

Anonymous

Hi. I come to your site often looking for information. It is really informative and I appreciate it very much. I have RA and have been having considerable amount of foot pain...... Dee RN

Thanks very much for the wonderful informative site.

Catherine

New Zealand

Thank You for my answer! I have been schedule for a bone density scan, allingment, and I am in the process of getting orthotics made, and checking out the natural remedies. Thank again! What a great web site!

Sincerely

Josette

Yes I want both pair of orthotics. You don't have an option of ordering 2 at one time so I had to place the order twice. Thanks. My husband likes these and wants to put them in all of his shoes. (referring to Superstep orthotics)

Cindy H.

Arizona

I searched the internet everywhere for a clear description and illustration of my symptoms/problem. https://www.foot-pain-explained.com/ was where I ended my search with answers. If I lived in Jersey (left 30 years ago) and didn't live in Florida I would definetly make an appointment with Dr. Mitnick.

Thanks, Kathy

Florida

1st of all THANKS A LOT for your great site......

Anna

Poland

Thank you so much for your response. I will let you know how I am doing if you would like. Your website is awesome!

M P

South Carolina

Hello! I want to thank you for such an informative website! I found you based on my ankle pain search and am happy to realize that there may be a relatively simple cause and solution....

Natalie

unknown location

...Thanks for your fantastic service.

Gary

Arlington, VA

Thank you so very much, that would be much appreciated. I love those insoles, by the way. (referring to Superstep orthotics)

Kelly W.

San Clemente, CA

Dr Marc is fantastic...He seems to know exactly what you are feeling with the problems you are having. I wish he was in my home town so I could go to him with my problems!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Pam

location unknown

Great insights! Thanks Doc, you're the best.

Glen

location unknown

I have been experiencing foot pain of various sorts and am working to figure out what it is. I found this site and can only say BRAVO!! What an excellent site! The time it must have taken to put all this together must've been a daunting task! I am sure it has helped so many people. Thank you so very much for doing this.

Bre

location unknown

Dr. Mitnick, Thank you so much for your reply. I did let my physician know and they took an x-ray - all is well! Also, thank you for providing this wonderful site, it is very helpful with lots of useful information! I appreciate your gift of time! God bless.

anonymous

Dr. Mitnick, Thank you, you were 100% correct. The pain finally brought me to the ER. I spent 8 days in the hospital. The Doppler you spoke of was able to show that there was no pulse in that foot. This was an arterial clot that split and traveled throughout my leg. My leg was almost amputated. I am in rough shape but have all my parts intact!! You certainly know what you are talking about. Thank you for taking the time to answer. Yours Truly!

anonymous

Staying at home after hallux surgery I spend quite a lot of time seaching info useful for avoiding problems which might come back. Today I found your site and I am .... delighted it happened. It's one of the best site I found last days.

Anna

Poland

Thanks for taking time to read and answer so many questions. It is truly a public service!

Esh

Seattle, WA

I just wanted to say that I am very greatful for this website!!

Bonnie

location unknown

Also, and importantly, just want to praise this web site. Thorough and thoughtfully presented, it certainly must be of considerable assistance to anyone with a foot problem. Terrific -- and very interesting.I trust the address comes up easily for those seeking information.

Bill

New Jersey

Thanks so much for answering my question. You've been more help to me than my own Dr. has been lately. Thanks again....I hope to be able to walk without pain someday.

Debbie

location unknown

Wow, that is exactly the information needed!!! thank you thank you thank you!!! I appreciate this help so very much from Marc Mitnick DPM. Excellent information and help to improve One's life.

Chrissy

location unknown

Thanks so much for this website Dr. Marc! It is so nice that you have this ask the doctor feature..I'm sure I'ts been helpful for alot of people. I will try what you suggested and see if it helps...thanks again!

Tracy

Evansville, IA

Dear Marc

I just want to say thank you for the quick response and the good info. I find it amazing and a super nice thing that you do here by answering medical questions at no charge.

Russ W.

location unknown

Your website is full of a lot of helpful information, and I am very impressed with the time in which you responded to my post. Thank you again for your time and consideration in your response.

-Sunny.

location unknown

Thank you very much for the information, I will consider it. Excellent web site.

Jackie

San Diego, CA

Dr. Mitnick, Just want to say thank you so very much for your quick response and very informative reply! After reading what you had to say, I called the doctor's office and was able to get in and see him the same day as my injury. Toe was x-rayed and luckily, it is not broken or fractured. Very badly bruised and will probably lose the toe nail. And although my toe and toe nail are still very black and blue and very sore, they ARE both starting to feel a little better. So again, thank you! I am so very happy that I came across your website. The service you provide is outstanding and immeasurable!

Rivi,

Albany, NY

Thank you so much for all of your advice. In searching the web for people dealing with this same issue i can tell you that you are a Knight In shining Armor! If I lived in Jersey I would gladly be your Spokesperson. Hopefully next time you hear from me it will be good news. God Bless,

Jill S.

location unknown

THANK YOU SO VERY MUCH FOR YOUR TIME AND EFFORTS, YOU ARE SO VERY APPRECIATED. THANK YOU FOR ALL YOU DO.

Jackie

Whichita, KS

thanks again, this site is very helpful.

mark

Boston, MA

Like others have stated...This site is amazing and I am so thankful that it was created.

....Keep up what your doing. Your a life saver.

Michelle

Colorado

Thanks again for the information provided on your site. It's easy for non-medical folk to understand your writing, and helps provide better communication between patient and doctor.

annielou

Colorado

Wonderful advice

by: Anonymous

This is the best site for foot problem info.

Thank you for this information. This description fits my pain and inflammation behind my 2nd toe perfectly.

by: Max

location unknown

Again, I really appreciate that you responded to my inquiry, and that your mention of Parkinson's helped me to find my way to a diagnosis of this difficult to diagnose disease. Most patients see on average 16 doctors before they are diagnosed. I hope that you can help other people that ask for your expertise in the future.

Barb D.

Canada

I just wanted to say that I am very greatful for this website!! I have had a fusion in my rt foot and am finally getting a little bit better......

Bonnie

location unknown

Again, Thank you from the bottom of my heart for taking the time to answer my question....your an angel!

Nancie

Wisconsin

Thank you for your response. You have provided some great insight (to my question)....

Julie

location unknown

Thank-you so very much for responding so quickly and in such detail to my question!! I will give my surgeon a call today!! This website is terrific!!!! Thank-you again!

Renae

North Carolina

Many Thanks Dr Marc!
Thank you for your response. It sounds like a good plan to me. He did not cut the wart out first ...

KG

location unknown

Thanks again doc for having this website and we STILL need qualified Podiatrists in beautiful sunny Tampa Bay (Bradenton) Florida.

Bessie Mae

Florida

Dear Dr. Mitnick, Thank you so very much for taking your time to answer my question. You have greatly relieved my anxiety related to the continual tingly I feel in my feet. I will share your response with my podiatrist next week. God bless you for having this question and answer page on your website! Most gratefully,

Lynne T.

location unknown

Your webpage is excellent, I commend you on sharing your knowledge to the public.

Robert

New Jersey

Thank you. you were more detailed than what others have told me they finally called from the last xrays and my son is now in a cast for 2 weeks he did have a fracture that was not noticeable.

a mom

location unknown

I have read your website and I have to admit that I am amazed at all the information that is on here. I have learned more than the three years I have been going to several doctors that I have seen!!

Melody

Lenoir, NC

Thank you so much Doc for a quick and thorough response!

Rustam

Bellevue, WA

I cannot thank you enough for your response, opinion, and suggestions! I want you to know how much it means to me, and I'm sure everyone else who has ever asked you a question! I feel like you're a lifesaver and have empowered me to take a stronger role and stand up for myself and my feet!

Jodi

location unknown

Bump on side of left foot

Comments for Bump on side of left foot

bump on side of foot

conditions

additional information