That Painful Bump on the Side of Your Feet? Here’s How to Get Rid of It

Have you ever noticed a painful bump developing on the side of your foot, right near the arch or on the outer edge? If you’ve been experiencing discomfort or swelling in that area, you’re not alone. While there are a variety of reasons why you might develop a bump on the side of your foot, one of the most common culprits is bunion—a bony bump that forms at the base of the big toe. However, not all bumps are bunions, and understanding the cause of your foot bump is the first step toward finding relief. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the potential causes of these painful lumps and explore treatment options that can help you get back on your feet—literally!

What Causes a Painful Bump on the Side of Your Foot?

There are several potential reasons for a bump to appear on the side of your foot. Let’s go over some of the most common ones:

1. Bunions (Hallux Valgus)

While bunions typically form at the base of the big toe, they can also cause a noticeable bump on the side of the foot. A bunion is a deformity where the big toe shifts toward the second toe, causing the bone at the joint to protrude. This bump can be painful, especially when wearing shoes that rub against it.

Symptoms:

A hard, swollen bump at the base of the big toe
Pain, redness, or inflammation in the area
Difficulty finding shoes that fit comfortably

2. Bursitis

Bursitis occurs when the fluid-filled sacs (bursae) that cushion your joints become inflamed. This can happen on the side of the foot, especially in areas that experience frequent pressure or friction from shoes. If bursitis is the cause of the bump, it can lead to swelling and tenderness.

Symptoms:

Pain and swelling in the affected area
Redness or warmth to the touch
Limited range of motion or discomfort while walking

3. Tailor’s Bunions (Bunionette)

A tailor’s bunion, or bunionette, is similar to a regular bunion but forms on the outer side of the foot near the pinky toe. It can cause a bony lump to develop at the base of the little toe, often leading to pain or difficulty wearing shoes. This condition is more common in people who have a history of wearing narrow shoes or those who suffer from structural foot problems.

Symptoms:

A bump on the outer side of the foot near the pinky toe
Pain or irritation when walking or wearing shoes
Calluses or corns developing over the bump

4. Stress Fractures

In some cases, a bump on the side of the foot could be the result of a small stress fracture. Stress fractures are tiny cracks in the bones, often caused by overuse, repetitive activity, or high-impact sports. These fractures can cause swelling, bruising, and a noticeable bump in the affected area.

Symptoms:

Pain that worsens with activity or pressure
Swelling and bruising near the bump
Difficulty walking or putting weight on the foot

5. Ganglion Cysts

Ganglion cysts are non-cancerous lumps filled with fluid that can form near joints and tendons, including on the side of the foot. While these cysts are usually harmless, they can become painful if they press against surrounding nerves or structures.

Symptoms: