Question
I have a hard lump on the outside of my foot about half way between my toe and heal.  Sometimes it doesn't hurt, but at other times it is extremely painful.  If I accidentally bump it I could come close to tears.  I have asked my family doctor about it and he suggested that it might be a stress fracture and then told me there was nothing I could do but get good shoes.  I can't believe that there is nothing that can be done for the pain.  Any helpful suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

Answer
This Chicago & Elmhurst Podiatrist says......

Dear Cathy

Please go see a Podiatrist Board Certified in Orthopedics or Foot & Ankle Surgery.
They should be able to take x-rays and give you a same day answer and treatment options.
It sounds like the base of your 5th metatarsal may be enlarged or you may have a small extra little bone there. Your doctor gave you bad advice. Pain should never be ignored and pain is not normal. It is a warning sign of a problem. I doubt that it is a stress fracture of a metatarsal bone of your foot-but even a stress fracture needs some form immobilization to allow it to heal.
Good shoes will not heal a fracture!
There is also a very small chance that it may be something that may need immediate treatment.
Go see a good Podiatrist and I am sure you will be very happy and relieved to know the REAL reason for the painful lump.
Please don't wait.

Hope this helps!
Good Luck My Friend!

Dr George Tsatsos & Svetlana Zats
Podiatrist Chicago 60618 & Elmhurst 60126 Podiatrists
Board Certified in Foot and Ankle Surgery & Orthopedics
New South Loop Location-Chicago 60661
AnkleNFoot.com
Runnersdoc.com
BabyFootDoc.com

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