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The response to the question below was authored by Marc Mitnick DPM

pain in both feet on outer sides of feet

by Rebecca
(Augusta, GA USA)

I have been having pains in both feet for approximately 8 months. The pain generally occurs on the outer side of my feet. I have had no accidents and have even purchased inserts for my shoes. I have had x-rays on my feet and the doctor said that I do have bone spurs in both heels but the pain is not in my heels. If I stand on my tip toes I just about will fall over from the pain radiating from the sides of my feet. If any pressure is applied to my feet like grabbing the top of my foot and gently squeezing I about come out of my skin. When I wake up in the morning I cannot leave the bed without bracing the wall and stretching my calves. This will allow me to walk in the morning. The doctor said there was nothing else he could do. I find this hard to believe because this pain is definitely not normal. Please advise what you think may be causing this issue and if there are any stretches other than calf stretches that I can do to help reduce this pain. Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

Hi Rebecca,
It has always been my thought that when a patient has the same pain on each foot, there has to be a common denominator. Things such as certain athletic activities or a certain pair of shoes, that create the pain.
The three most common things I see on the outside of the foot are, 1. cuboid syndrome, 2. inflammation of the peroneus longus tendon which is the tendon that comes down the side of the foot and at the level of the fifth metatarsal base (the protrusion most people have on the outside of the foot midway between the little toe and ankle)turns and goes underneath and across the bottom of the foot and 3. irritation or even fracture of the fifth metatarsal base.
(I discuss all three conditions on my site)
I would suggest you see another doctor as his advice that you have a heel spur is ridiculous compared to where your pain is arising from.
Marc Mitnick DPM
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Comments for pain in both feet on outer sides of feet

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Jul 27, 2019
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Foot pain both feet outer side midway between small toe and ankle
by: Norma

I have had this going on for about 6-7 months now and it absolutely has nothing to do with wearing tight shoes. I wear loose shoes, perfect fitting shoes, no shoes, sandals, only socks, snug shoes, no matter what I wear or don’t wear on my feet doesn’t make one bit of difference. However I have been researching this for about a month now and found it could be one of two things, perioneal tendonitis, or cuboid syndrome. I think it happened bc I’m on my feet prob 20 hours per day, I have ocd and adhd and cannot sit still for more that 10 min, I am constantly up doing something. But this pain is so awful it is hard to walk sometimes and when I do walk sometimes the pain is in the middle of my feet on the bottom.
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Peroneal tendonitis and cuboid syndrome are both possibilities. From a statistical standpoint I would lean more towards peroneal tendonitis, simply because the odds of displacing both your cuboids is slimmer then developing a tendonitis in both feet.

More then likely either condition is not something you will be able to treat on your own, so a visit to a local podiatrist might not be a bad idea.

Marc Mitnick DPM

Dec 09, 2016
Rating

Resolution?
by: Heather

Hello I have this same pain in both feet. Did you ever find out what was causing this?

Mar 31, 2016
Rating

Same EXACT issue in both feet
by: Laladabaglady

I have been having the same exact issue with both my feet on the outer sides about mid-way between the pinky toe and the heel. I can't even get out of bed in the morning without hobbling like I'm an 80 yr old woman. I noticed extreme pain not just a "sore" feeling constantly everyday for the last 6 months. I told a Dr. who immediately looked at my weight and tested for diabetes. Thank god the tests were all negative and I never got an explanation. Any news from your case, or anyone have any advice. Please and thank you!

The pain sounds like it is coming from what is known as the "base of the fifth metatarsal", usually when pain occurs in this spot and it is occurring on both feet, it tells me that you may have a pair of shoes that are the culprit.
This area tends to be a very wide portion of your foot and if you are wearing a shoe(s) that are too narrow, there is either too much pressure against the bone, the bone is hanging over the sole of the shoe.
In either instance, this can cause pain in that area.

Marc Mitnick DPM

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ADDITIONAL REFERENCES

Mayo Clinic

Johns Hopkins Medicine

MedlinePlus

Arthritis Foundation

University of Rochester Medical Center

Harvard Health

Drugs.com

American Academy of Pediatrics

Penn State Medical Center

National Institutes of Health

Columbia University Department of Rehabilitation

ScienceDirect

Stanford Health Care

Illinois Bone and Joint Institute

Mount Sinai Hospital

Institute for Chronic Pain

University of Florida Health

American Family Physician

Cedars-Sinai

University of Maryland Medical Center

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

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Hunterville, NC

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NY

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NJ

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Fla

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Ontario, Canada

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Fla.

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Judy

(location unknown)

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New York

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Memphis, TN

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Scotland

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J. Simmons

(location unknown)

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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)

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Joe

(location unknown)

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Pete M.

(location unknown)

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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,

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West lafayette, IN

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Tampa, Florida 33624

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Texas

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Michael D. Ebeling

Tampa, Florida 33624

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Steve

Dear Dr.Mitnick

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I thank you for putting together this incredible website.

Regards,

Dragica W.

Edmonton,Canada

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South Africa

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

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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

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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

pain in both feet on outer sides of feet

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