How Can Orthotics Help with Pain on Outside of Foot When Walking?

Foot pain is a common concern that can be caused by a variety of issues, ranging from simple overuse to more complex structural problems. One area that often causes discomfort is the outside of the foot. This type of pain can make walking, running, or even standing for extended periods difficult and frustrating. Many people specifically experience pain on outside of foot when walking, which can interfere with daily activities. Fortunately, orthotics—customized shoe inserts designed to correct imbalances in the feet—can be a highly effective treatment for alleviating pain, especially on the outside of the foot.

In this post, we will explore how orthotics can help with pain on the outside of the foot, what causes this discomfort, and why seeking professional help is important for long-term relief.

Understanding Pain on the Outside of the Foot

Pain on the outside of the foot when walking is a common issue many people experience. This pain can occur in different areas, including the fifth metatarsal (the bone on the outer side of the foot) and the ankle. It may arise due to various conditions, such as:

• Peroneal Tendonitis: Inflammation of the tendons on the outer side of the ankle.

• Cuboid Syndrome: A misalignment of the cuboid bone on the outer part of the foot.

• Stress Fractures: Small cracks in the bones that can result from repetitive impact, especially in athletes.

• Plantar Fasciitis: Though it primarily affects the heel, this condition can also cause referred pain to the outer foot due to abnormal gait patterns.

• Foot Deformities: Structural issues like flat feet or high arches can lead to abnormal stress distribution on the foot, causing pain on the outside.

While these conditions can cause pain and discomfort, orthotics may offer significant relief by providing proper support and correction.

How Orthotics Can Help Relieve Foot Pain

Orthotics are custom-made shoe inserts that are designed to fit the unique shape of your foot. They work by redistributing pressure across the foot, realigning the bones and joints, and supporting muscles and tendons that might be under strain. Here’s how orthotics can help in treating pain on the outside of the foot:

1. Correcting Abnormal Foot Mechanics

Many people have an abnormal walking pattern, such as overpronation (when the foot rolls inward too much) or supination (when the foot rolls outward). These issues can lead to uneven pressure on the feet, which may cause pain on the outside of the foot.

Orthotics can help correct these abnormal mechanics by redistributing pressure and providing proper arch support. When your feet are properly aligned, the strain on the outer foot is minimized, reducing pain and preventing further injury.

2. Providing Cushioning and Shock Absorption

The outer foot often bears more pressure during activities like running or walking, especially if you have a high arch or an uneven gait. This added pressure can lead to pain, inflammation, and even stress fractures over time.

Orthotics can cushion the foot and absorb some of the shock that occurs when your foot strikes the ground. This reduces the impact on the outer foot and provides much-needed relief from pain.

3. Reducing Inflammation and Tendon Strain

Conditions like peroneal tendonitis, which causes pain along the outer side of the foot, can be exacerbated by poor foot alignment. Orthotics can help alleviate this pain by supporting the tendons and ligaments, allowing them to function properly without excessive strain. The cushioning in orthotics also helps reduce inflammation by absorbing the stress that typically leads to tendon irritation.

4. Improving Overall Comfort and Stability

By providing enhanced stability, orthotics can make walking, standing, and running much more comfortable. Whether you’re walking for exercise or spending long hours on your feet at work, orthotics ensure that your foot remains in a neutral position. This added stability reduces the chances of injury and alleviates the pain you might feel on the outside of the foot due to instability or imbalance.

5. Preventing Further Damage

If left untreated, pain on the outside of the foot can lead to further complications, such as misalignment of the bones or worsening tendonitis. Orthotics act as a preventive measure, ensuring that the foot stays properly aligned, even during physical activities. This prevents further damage to the foot and promotes overall foot health.

6. Targeted Relief for Specific Conditions

Orthotics can be tailored to address specific conditions that might cause pain on the outside of the foot. For example, for patients with cuboid syndrome, orthotics may be designed to help reposition the misaligned cuboid bone. If you suffer from stress fractures or tendonitis, orthotics can be customized to provide additional support to the affected areas.

By specifically targeting the root cause of the pain, orthotics offer a more personalized and effective solution compared to over-the-counter insoles.

The Importance of Custom Orthotics

While there are many over-the-counter insoles available that claim to alleviate foot pain, they are not tailored to the specific needs of your foot. Custom orthotics, on the other hand, are made based on a detailed analysis of your foot structure, gait, and specific pain points. This level of customization allows them to address the exact source of your pain and provide maximum comfort.

A podiatrist or foot specialist can take precise measurements of your feet, conduct gait analysis, and evaluate any existing foot problems you may have. From there, they can create orthotics that are perfectly suited to your needs, ensuring optimal results.

Lifestyle Adjustments to Complement Orthotics

Orthotics can be a powerful tool in alleviating pain on the outside of the foot, but they work best when combined with other strategies. Here are some additional lifestyle changes that can help complement the effects of orthotics:

• Rest and Elevation: If you experience acute pain, rest your foot and elevate it to reduce swelling and inflammation.

• Stretching and Strengthening Exercises: Targeting the muscles and tendons in the foot with exercises can improve flexibility and reduce strain on the outer foot.

• Footwear Choices: Wearing shoes with proper arch support and cushioning can also help prevent pain. Orthotics can be inserted into most types of shoes for added comfort.

When to Seek Professional Help

If you’re experiencing persistent pain on the outside of the foot when walking, it’s important to consult with a podiatrist or foot specialist. A healthcare professional can diagnose the underlying cause of your pain and determine whether orthotics are the right solution. They can also provide other treatments, such as physical therapy, to ensure you’re on the path to recovery.

In some cases, surgery may be necessary for more severe conditions, but most people find relief through conservative measures like orthotics and lifestyle changes.

Conclusion

Orthotics can be an effective treatment option for individuals suffering from pain on the outside of the foot. By improving foot alignment, providing cushioning, and reducing strain, custom orthotics offer significant relief from discomfort and prevent further injury. Whether your pain is due to a structural issue, inflammation, or improper gait, orthotics can provide the support your feet need to heal and function optimally.

If you're dealing with foot pain in Scottsdale, AZ, don’t hesitate to seek professional help. A podiatrist can assess your condition and determine the best course of treatment, which may include custom orthotics tailored to your specific needs.