Foot pain can sneak up in the most unexpected ways. One minute you’re walking around just fine, and the next you’re wincing every time your foot hits the ground. If you’ve been feeling a sharp or aching pain along the side of your foot, it’s not something to ignore.

There are a few common reasons this type of pain shows up—and the good news is, with the right care, you don’t have to live with it.

Let’s break it down.

1. Peroneal Tendonitis: Pain That Stretches Along the Outside

If the pain is along the outside edge of your foot or ankle, especially near the bump on the outer ankle bone, it could be peroneal tendonitis. This happens when the tendons that run along that area become inflamed or overworked.

What it feels like:

• Aching or burning pain on the outer side of your foot or ankle

• Swelling or tenderness in that area

• Worse after activity, especially running or walking on uneven surfaces

What causes it?

• Sudden increase in activity

• Weak ankles or flat feet

• Wearing unsupportive shoes

What helps?

• Rest and ice

• Supportive footwear or custom orthotics

• Physical therapy or taping

• In some cases, laser therapy or gentle strengthening

2. Bunions: More Than Just a Bump

If the pain is more on the inside edge of your foot, just below the big toe joint, you might be dealing with a bunion. This is a bony bump that forms when the big toe starts shifting toward the other toes, changing the shape of your foot over time.

What it feels like:

• A hard bump on the side of your foot

• Soreness or redness near the big toe joint

• Pain when wearing narrow shoes

What causes it?

• Genetics (thanks, mom or dad!)

• Poor shoe choices over time (tight, pointed, or high-heeled)

• Flat feet or joint problems

What helps?

• Padding and wider shoes

• Custom orthotics to realign pressure

• Night splints or toe spacers

• In more advanced cases, bunion surgery

If you’re looking for bunion treatment in West Haven CT, we offer both conservative and surgical options to help ease pain and improve mobility.

3. Stress Fractures: The Sneaky Little Cracks

Another possible cause of pain on the side of your foot is a stress fracture—tiny cracks in the bone caused by overuse or repetitive impact.

These are more common in runners, dancers, or anyone who spends a lot of time on their feet.

What it feels like:

• A dull, pinpoint pain that gets worse with activity

• Swelling or bruising on the side of the foot

• Tender to the touch

What causes it?

• Overuse or sudden increase in exercise

• Thin bones (osteoporosis)

• Improper shoes or worn-out insoles

What helps?

• Rest (and we mean it!)

• Immobilization (boot or brace)

• Gradual return to activity with podiatrist guidance

Without treatment, stress fractures can get worse and lead to more serious injury—so it’s best to catch them early.

Why See a Podiatrist?

Pain on the side of your foot can be tricky. It might be a tendon, a bone, or a joint issue. That’s why getting a proper diagnosis is so important. At West Haven Foot and Ankle Center, we’ll take the time to really understand what’s going on with your foot—and create a plan that works for your lifestyle.

Whether you need imaging, custom orthotics, or just expert advice, Dr. Sean Lazarus and our team are here to help. As a trusted podiatrist in West Haven CT, Dr. Lazarus has seen it all—and he’ll make sure you’re heard, understood, and treated with care.

Don’t Wait for It to Get Worse

If you’ve had foot pain for more than a few days, or if it’s getting worse, now’s the time to act. The sooner we find the cause, the faster you can get back on your feet—literally.

You don’t have to live with foot pain. Let us help you feel better, move better, and live better.