Associated symptoms

Pain on the outer edge of the foot rarely occurs without further accompanying symptoms. Depending on what the cause of the pain is, additional complaints can be explained. In the case of periosteitis of the fifth metatarsal, the classic symptoms of an inflammatory reaction, namely swelling, redness or warming, occur in addition to pain on the outer edge of the foot.

Pain on the outer edge of the foot can also be secondary to arthrosis in the big toe joint. Since this form of arthrosis causes severe pain and a restriction of movement, and the rolling motion of the foot is therefore perceived as very unpleasant, affected persons change their rolling pattern. However, the less painful rolling motion then occurs preferably over the outer edge of the foot, which is considered a good alternative until a certain point in time.

In the long run, however, pain develops on the outer edge of the foot. If the reason for pain on the outer edge of the foot is an existing so-called “tailor’s ball”, i.e. a protrusion of the head of the fifth metatarsal on the outside of the foot, this can cause severe pain when pressure is applied, but also irritation of the bursa. In most cases, a fracture of the fifth metatarsal results in a symptom consisting of pain at the corresponding fracture site or also at the outer edge of the foot, swelling and bruising. If even a nerve has been damaged by the fracture, this can lead to slight sensitivity disorders.

Diagnosis

The treating physician should first take a detailed medical history with the person concerned. This can be used to find out whether there is a bad posture or malposition of the knees and/or feet. The doctor should also ask how much strain is placed on the foot in the form of regular and intensive sport or prolonged standing.

The footwear worn during these activities can also be assessed. In a subsequent clinical examination, it is important to identify malpositions and describe the pain in more detail. It is examined whether the pain restricts movement and is movement-dependent.

In addition, a palpation of the outer edge of the foot is indicated in order to be able to identify possible areas that are particularly prone to pressure pain. This allows an initial assessment to be made as to whether muscular or sinewy parts of the foot are injured or whether the bone of the fifth metatarsus is also affected. In addition, a gaze diagnosis can already be made in cases of extreme malpositioning.

If a fracture is suspected, it may be useful to take an X-ray. In addition to fractures, dislocations or generally any kind of deformity of the ankle joints can be detected. An MRT is only necessary in exceptional cases.