Farmer’s markets are firing up all across the valley as the season’s change. The Old Town Scottsdale farmer’s market is one of the best around. What goes with hand-in-hand with farmer’s markets? Walking! Although the market area may not be very big, there can be a decent amount of walking while enjoying an October day in the Valley. While walking one common foot complaint can be “I have pain on the side of my feet.”
Lateral foot pain (pain on the outside portion of your foot) can be a common complaint to a podiatrist. One specific type of injury that causes this lateral foot pain is peroneal insertional tendonitis. If you are scratching your head on that medical jargon it is okay, I will walk you through it. The Peroneus muscles start in the outside portion of your lower leg and become tendons. These tendons then pass on the outside of your ankle and attach to bones in your foot. One attachment specifically is on the outside of your foot. The term insertional tendonitis refers to inflammation of the tendon at its insertion to the bone. Below are some signs and symptoms of peroneal instertional tendonitis.
Signs and Symptoms
- Redness
- Swelling
- Tenderness to touch
- Pain while walking
- Pain at the insertion of the tendon
- Pain improves with ice and rest
It is important to note that tendonitis can occur anywhere along the peroneal tendon. It does not have to be localized to the insertion of the tendon on the lateral foot. Treatment of peroneal insterional tendonitis always starts with a conservative approach. Rest and ice are good treatments to start with along with anti-inflammatory medication. Other treatment options may include a biomechanical exam to assess foot structure and mechanics. This exam helps the podiatrist determine if the foot structure is causing the lateral foot pain. Additionally, stretching or physical therapy may be needed. A podiatrist will help you determine what the best treatment plan is for your specific situation.
Farmer’s markets can be a blast. Don’t let foot pain hold you back this fall to enjoying all that Phoenix has to offer. If you or someone you know has any foot issues, please consider making an appointment with Dr. Jay C. Larson at Sole Foot and Ankle Specialists in Glendale, Arizona.