Question
Hello,

I have a bump on the side of my right foot which I think was exacerbated by playing basketball (jumping, running full court) and possibly worsened by wearing tight-fitting work shoes. I had this problem before (again, post-basketball), but it went away after a few weeks. This time, it's hanging around, not to the point where I'm limping, but it does hurt. I can't run well, for instance. The bump varies in size day to day depending on how much walking I'm doing. Any suggestions for home treatment before seeing a podiatrist? Will icing it help?

Thanks -

Dave

PS I also have hammertoes, flat feet and a history of bunions!

Answer
Hi Dave,

The bump on the side of the foot can be inflammation around the bone or at the attachment of the tendon to the bone. The most common area is at the base of the 5th metatarsal bone.  See the link and look athe bone labeled 5:
http://www.fpnotebook.com/FootAnatomyAnterior.jpg
This can go up and down appearing smaller and larger as the swelling changes.
Another possibility is a condition known as a ganglion cyst.  These cysts occur at high pressure or stress areas.  These are fluid-filled and often change size.
See this link for more info:
http://www.thetampapodiatrist.com/document_disorders.cfm?id=156

With any inflammation I would suggest ice.  Also, try and wear shoes that cause no irritation and consider placing several Band-Aids over the area so there is no friction.

Since you have flat feet and deformities there is likely additional stress and abnormal foot motion.  You may want to consider custom orthotic devices/arch supports.

If there is no progress, I would see a Podiatrist.

Good Luck

Sincerely,

Marc Katz, DPM
Tampa, FL
Advanced Podiatry
www.thetampapodiatrist.com
www.tampacryosurgery.com
www.fix-my-foot.com