Why Do I Always Get a Painful Lump on the Side of My Foot?

A recurring lump on the side of your foot can be uncomfortable, concerning, and frustrating—especially if it interferes with walking or wearing shoes. These lumps can vary in size, texture, and pain level, and they often signal an underlying issue that shouldn’t be ignored.

What Causes the Issue?

Common causes of a lump on the side of the foot include:

Tailor’s bunion (bunionette) – A bony bump on the outside of the little toe joint
Ganglion cyst – A soft, fluid-filled lump often found near joints or tendons
Bursitis – Inflammation of the fluid-filled sacs that cushion bones
Lipoma – A soft, fatty growth beneath the skin
Fibroma – A benign tissue mass within the plantar fascia
Pressure from ill-fitting footwear
Arthritic joint changes

Treatment Options

Podiatric examination – Accurate diagnosis through visual assessment and imaging (e.g., ultrasound or X-ray).
Footwear modification – Wearing wider shoes or those with soft uppers to reduce pressure on the lump.
Orthotics – Custom insoles to offload pressure from the affected area.
Padding or toe spacers – To reduce friction and protect the lump.
Anti-inflammatory therapy – Includes ice packs, oral anti-inflammatories, or cortisone injections.
Surgical removal – If the lump is persistent, painful, or affecting mobility, surgical removal may be necessary.

A podiatrist can determine the type of lump and suggest the most appropriate treatment plan.

Prevention Tips

Wearing properly fitted, supportive shoes and addressing foot pain early can help prevent pressure-related lumps from forming. Regular podiatric check-ups are also important to catch structural or biomechanical issues early.