Bony Protrusion on the Side of the Foot – Causes, Diagnosis, and Treatment

Bony Protrusion on the Side of the Foot – Causes, Diagnosis, and Treatment at Emirates Hospitals Group

A bony protrusion on the side of the foot can arise from several causes, the most common being a bunion. Bunions are progressive deformities affecting the joint at the base of the big toe, causing it to angle inward and the big toe to drift toward the other toes. This pushes the metatarsal bone outward, creating the prominent bump. Another possible cause is a tailor’s bunion, which affects the outside of the foot at the base of the little toe. Similar to a bunion, it involves a bony prominence and widening of the foot. Less common causes include bone spurs, which are bony growths that can develop anywhere on the foot, and fractures that didn’t heal correctly, leading to a bony bump.

Several potential causes exist for a bony protrusion on the side of the foot:

• Bunions: Progressive deformity of the joint at the base of the big toe, causing it to angle inward.
• Tailor’s Bunions: Affects the outside of the foot at the base of the little toe, similar to a bunion.
• Bone Spurs: Bony growths that can develop anywhere on the foot.
• Malunited Fractures: Fractures that didn’t heal correctly, resulting in a bony bump.

Diagnosing the cause of a bony protrusion typically involves:

• Physical Examination: The doctor assesses the location and size of the bump, examines joint range of motion, and inquires about pain.
• X-rays: Visualize the bones and assess joint alignment, confirming bunions/tailor’s bunions and ruling out other conditions.
• Further Imaging (e.g., MRI): May be necessary to evaluate soft tissues and rule out other potential problems.

Treatment for a bony protrusion depends on the underlying cause and severity:

• Conservative Treatments (for Bunions/Tailor’s Bunions):
  • Wider shoes.
  • Padding or orthotics.
  • Pain relievers/anti-inflammatory medications.
• Surgery (for Bunions/Tailor’s Bunions): Corrects bone alignment, removes the bony prominence, and improves function.
• Treatment for Other Causes (Bone Spurs, Malunited Fractures): Tailored to the specific condition, potentially involving rest, immobilization, physical therapy, or surgery.

It’s essential to consult a doctor to determine the cause of the bony protrusion and receive appropriate treatment.

Related Treatments

• Bunions / Hallux Valgus
• Orthopedic Surgery