Medically reviewed by Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM
Board-certified podiatric surgeon | Balance Foot & Ankle
Last reviewed: May 2026
The most important clinical decision with Bone On Outside Of Foot Stick Out isn’t which treatment to start with — it’s identifying the correct subtype. That changes everything. Call (810) 206-1402.
The most important clinical decision with Bone On Outside Of Foot Stick Out isn’t which treatment to start with — it’s identifying the correct subtype. That changes everything. Call (810) 206-1402.
Bone Sticking Out on the Outside of the Foot: 6 Causes by Exact Location
A bone or bony bump on the outside (lateral side) of the foot is one of the most common findings in podiatry — and one of the most misidentified. The vast majority of lateral foot bumps are normal anatomy (the styloid process of the 5th metatarsal) or benign bony prominences that require no treatment. The minority are acute fractures or progressive deformities requiring intervention. The key diagnostic variable is location: where exactly on the lateral foot does the bump occur?
| Bump Location | Most Likely Cause | Key Feature | Pain with Pressure? | Urgency |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Base of the 5th metatarsal (behind the little toe, near the midfoot) | Styloid process of the 5th metatarsal — this is NORMAL anatomy; everyone has this bony prominence; it’s more visible in lean feet and when shoes press against it | Present since childhood or always there; no recent change; not growing; appears symmetrically on both feet; only tender when a shoe presses directly on it | Only with direct shoe pressure; not tender to pressing with finger from above | Not urgent — normal anatomy. Consider wider shoes if rubbing is the only issue |
| Base of the 5th metatarsal — sudden onset after injury | 5th metatarsal avulsion fracture — the peroneus brevis tendon pulls a fragment of bone off the styloid process with a twisting ankle injury; looks like the same area as the styloid process but appeared acutely | Sudden onset after ankle roll or inversion injury; significant point tenderness directly at the bony base; swelling and bruising; cannot bear weight comfortably | Yes — significant point tenderness at the base; pain with any weight | Urgent — X-ray within 24-48 hours; distinguishing avulsion from Jones fracture changes treatment significantly |
| Junction of proximal 5th metatarsal shaft and base (1-2cm distal to base) | Jones fracture — fracture at the metaphyseal-diaphyseal junction; more serious than avulsion; at risk for non-union; can be from acute injury OR stress (insidious onset in runners) | Pain is slightly more distal than the styloid process; can follow an ankle sprain or develop gradually with increasing activity; stress Jones fractures may have only mild swelling | Yes — point tenderness at the junction; pain increases with activity; non-weight-bearing may be required | URGENT — Jones fracture has 20-30% non-union rate if untreated; needs X-ray same day; may require surgery if displaced or athlete |
| Head of the 5th metatarsal (just behind the little toe) | Tailor’s bunion (bunionette) — progressive lateral drift of the 5th metatarsal head; creates a bony prominence at the MT head; worsened by narrow shoes; often bilateral | Gradually enlarging over years; visible medial deviation of the little toe; pain with shoe pressure (not at rest); callus formation at the lateral MT head; associated with wide forefoot | With shoe pressure only initially; later becomes painful at rest in severe cases | Not urgent — conservative (wider shoes, padding) effective early; progressive deformity may need surgical correction |
| Shaft of the 5th metatarsal (middle of the bone) | 5th metatarsal stress fracture — gradual onset of pain along the shaft with increasing activity; runners and military recruits; not a visible bony prominence but pain and swelling mimics one | Insidious onset with increased running mileage; pain along the shaft of the bone (not at the base or head); tender along the bone shaft; single-leg hop reproduces pain | Yes — point tenderness along the shaft; pain increases with activity, resolves with rest | Urgent — continued activity risks complete fracture; X-ray; may need MRI if negative (stress fractures invisible for 2-3 weeks on X-ray); boot or non-weight-bearing |
| Lateral ankle / below the fibula | Peroneal tendon subluxation or peroneal tendon tear — peroneal tendons snap over the lateral fibula; bump may be a snapping tendon or a retinaculum injury; also consider os peroneum (accessory bone in peroneus longus tendon) | Snapping or clicking with ankle rotation; bump may move with foot movement; lateral ankle pain not specifically at the metatarsal; often follows ankle sprain | With specific movements (ankle eversion, circumduction); tenderness along the tendon, not the bone | Non-urgent but needs MRI or ultrasound evaluation; peroneal tendon tears require surgical repair if symptomatic; os peroneum is often incidental |
Is the Bone on the Outside of Your Foot Normal? 3-Question Self-Assessment
| Question | Yes → Most Likely | No → Consider |
|---|---|---|
| Was the bump always there, or did it appear gradually over years? | Normal styloid process (anatomic variant) or slowly progressive tailor’s bunion — neither urgent; manage with shoe modification if symptomatic | If appeared suddenly or recently → acute fracture (avulsion or Jones fracture) until proven otherwise → X-ray |
| Is the bump at the BASE of the 5th metatarsal (closest to the heel), not at the toe end? | Styloid process (normal) or avulsion fracture; if present since childhood → normal anatomy; if appeared after ankle injury → avulsion fracture possible | If at the MT head (behind the little toe) → tailor’s bunion (bunionette); if along the midshaft → stress fracture or Jones fracture |
| Does the bump hurt when you press your finger directly on it FROM THE SIDE (not just when a shoe rubs it)? | Direct bony tenderness → fracture or pathologic process → X-ray within 24-48 hours regardless of other findings | No tenderness to direct palpation (only shoe pressure) → likely normal styloid process or early tailor’s bunion → manage conservatively |
When to See a Podiatrist for a Bone Sticking Out on the Lateral Foot
| Sign | Likely Diagnosis | Timeframe |
|---|---|---|
| Acute onset after ankle inversion injury with lateral foot pain and inability to bear weight | Avulsion fracture or Jones fracture — OTTAWA FOOT RULES positive | Same day — X-ray needed |
| Gradually worsening lateral bump that now hurts at rest (not just with shoe pressure) | Advanced tailor’s bunion or progressive bony change | Within 1-2 weeks |
| Lateral foot pain developing gradually with increased running mileage + tenderness along bone shaft | Stress fracture — needs imaging before continuing activity | Within 48 hours — stop running immediately |
| Visible deformity or angulation (bone appears misaligned compared to unaffected foot) | Displaced fracture — emergency | Emergency department same day |
| Snapping or clicking sensation at the lateral ankle with the bump | Peroneal tendon subluxation or tear | Within 1-2 weeks |
| Bump present since childhood — shoe rubbing only, no pain at rest | Normal styloid process — conservative management only | Elective — schedule at convenience; may only need wider footwear |
Bone Sticking Out on the Outside of the Foot: 6 Causes by Exact Location
A bone or bony bump on the outside (lateral side) of the foot is one of the most common findings in podiatry — and one of the most misidentified. The vast majority of lateral foot bumps are normal anatomy (the styloid process of the 5th metatarsal) or benign bony prominences that require no treatment. The minority are acute fractures or progressive deformities requiring intervention. The key diagnostic variable is location: where exactly on the lateral foot does the bump occur?
| Bump Location | Most Likely Cause | Key Feature | Pain with Pressure? | Urgency |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Base of the 5th metatarsal (behind the little toe, near the midfoot) | Styloid process of the 5th metatarsal — this is NORMAL anatomy; everyone has this bony prominence; it’s more visible in lean feet and when shoes press against it | Present since childhood or always there; no recent change; not growing; appears symmetrically on both feet; only tender when a shoe presses directly on it | Only with direct shoe pressure; not tender to pressing with finger from above | Not urgent — normal anatomy. Consider wider shoes if rubbing is the only issue |
| Base of the 5th metatarsal — sudden onset after injury | 5th metatarsal avulsion fracture — the peroneus brevis tendon pulls a fragment of bone off the styloid process with a twisting ankle injury; looks like the same area as the styloid process but appeared acutely | Sudden onset after ankle roll or inversion injury; significant point tenderness directly at the bony base; swelling and bruising; cannot bear weight comfortably | Yes — significant point tenderness at the base; pain with any weight | Urgent — X-ray within 24-48 hours; distinguishing avulsion from Jones fracture changes treatment significantly |
| Junction of proximal 5th metatarsal shaft and base (1-2cm distal to base) | Jones fracture — fracture at the metaphyseal-diaphyseal junction; more serious than avulsion; at risk for non-union; can be from acute injury OR stress (insidious onset in runners) | Pain is slightly more distal than the styloid process; can follow an ankle sprain or develop gradually with increasing activity; stress Jones fractures may have only mild swelling | Yes — point tenderness at the junction; pain increases with activity; non-weight-bearing may be required | URGENT — Jones fracture has 20-30% non-union rate if untreated; needs X-ray same day; may require surgery if displaced or athlete |
| Head of the 5th metatarsal (just behind the little toe) | Tailor’s bunion (bunionette) — progressive lateral drift of the 5th metatarsal head; creates a bony prominence at the MT head; worsened by narrow shoes; often bilateral | Gradually enlarging over years; visible medial deviation of the little toe; pain with shoe pressure (not at rest); callus formation at the lateral MT head; associated with wide forefoot | With shoe pressure only initially; later becomes painful at rest in severe cases | Not urgent — conservative (wider shoes, padding) effective early; progressive deformity may need surgical correction |
| Shaft of the 5th metatarsal (middle of the bone) | 5th metatarsal stress fracture — gradual onset of pain along the shaft with increasing activity; runners and military recruits; not a visible bony prominence but pain and swelling mimics one | Insidious onset with increased running mileage; pain along the shaft of the bone (not at the base or head); tender along the bone shaft; single-leg hop reproduces pain | Yes — point tenderness along the shaft; pain increases with activity, resolves with rest | Urgent — continued activity risks complete fracture; X-ray; may need MRI if negative (stress fractures invisible for 2-3 weeks on X-ray); boot or non-weight-bearing |
| Lateral ankle / below the fibula | Peroneal tendon subluxation or peroneal tendon tear — peroneal tendons snap over the lateral fibula; bump may be a snapping tendon or a retinaculum injury; also consider os peroneum (accessory bone in peroneus longus tendon) | Snapping or clicking with ankle rotation; bump may move with foot movement; lateral ankle pain not specifically at the metatarsal; often follows ankle sprain | With specific movements (ankle eversion, circumduction); tenderness along the tendon, not the bone | Non-urgent but needs MRI or ultrasound evaluation; peroneal tendon tears require surgical repair if symptomatic; os peroneum is often incidental |
Is the Bone on the Outside of Your Foot Normal? 3-Question Self-Assessment
| Question | Yes → Most Likely | No → Consider |
|---|---|---|
| Was the bump always there, or did it appear gradually over years? | Normal styloid process (anatomic variant) or slowly progressive tailor’s bunion — neither urgent; manage with shoe modification if symptomatic | If appeared suddenly or recently → acute fracture (avulsion or Jones fracture) until proven otherwise → X-ray |
| Is the bump at the BASE of the 5th metatarsal (closest to the heel), not at the toe end? | Styloid process (normal) or avulsion fracture; if present since childhood → normal anatomy; if appeared after ankle injury → avulsion fracture possible | If at the MT head (behind the little toe) → tailor’s bunion (bunionette); if along the midshaft → stress fracture or Jones fracture |
| Does the bump hurt when you press your finger directly on it FROM THE SIDE (not just when a shoe rubs it)? | Direct bony tenderness → fracture or pathologic process → X-ray within 24-48 hours regardless of other findings | No tenderness to direct palpation (only shoe pressure) → likely normal styloid process or early tailor’s bunion → manage conservatively |
When to See a Podiatrist for a Bone Sticking Out on the Lateral Foot
| Sign | Likely Diagnosis | Timeframe |
|---|---|---|
| Acute onset after ankle inversion injury with lateral foot pain and inability to bear weight | Avulsion fracture or Jones fracture — OTTAWA FOOT RULES positive | Same day — X-ray needed |
| Gradually worsening lateral bump that now hurts at rest (not just with shoe pressure) | Advanced tailor’s bunion or progressive bony change | Within 1-2 weeks |
| Lateral foot pain developing gradually with increased running mileage + tenderness along bone shaft | Stress fracture — needs imaging before continuing activity | Within 48 hours — stop running immediately |
| Visible deformity or angulation (bone appears misaligned compared to unaffected foot) | Displaced fracture — emergency | Emergency department same day |
| Snapping or clicking sensation at the lateral ankle with the bump | Peroneal tendon subluxation or tear | Within 1-2 weeks |
| Bump present since childhood — shoe rubbing only, no pain at rest | Normal styloid process — conservative management only | Elective — schedule at convenience; may only need wider footwear |
Bone Sticking Out on the Outside of the Foot: 6 Causes by Exact Location
A bone or bony bump on the outside (lateral side) of the foot is one of the most common findings in podiatry — and one of the most misidentified. The vast majority of lateral foot bumps are normal anatomy (the styloid process of the 5th metatarsal) or benign bony prominences that require no treatment. The minority are acute fractures or progressive deformities requiring intervention. The key diagnostic variable is location: where exactly on the lateral foot does the bump occur?
| Bump Location | Most Likely Cause | Key Feature | Pain with Pressure? | Urgency |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Base of the 5th metatarsal (behind the little toe, near the midfoot) | Styloid process of the 5th metatarsal — this is NORMAL anatomy; everyone has this bony prominence; it’s more visible in lean feet and when shoes press against it | Present since childhood or always there; no recent change; not growing; appears symmetrically on both feet; only tender when a shoe presses directly on it | Only with direct shoe pressure; not tender to pressing with finger from above | Not urgent — normal anatomy. Consider wider shoes if rubbing is the only issue |
| Base of the 5th metatarsal — sudden onset after injury | 5th metatarsal avulsion fracture — the peroneus brevis tendon pulls a fragment of bone off the styloid process with a twisting ankle injury; looks like the same area as the styloid process but appeared acutely | Sudden onset after ankle roll or inversion injury; significant point tenderness directly at the bony base; swelling and bruising; cannot bear weight comfortably | Yes — significant point tenderness at the base; pain with any weight | Urgent — X-ray within 24-48 hours; distinguishing avulsion from Jones fracture changes treatment significantly |
| Junction of proximal 5th metatarsal shaft and base (1-2cm distal to base) | Jones fracture — fracture at the metaphyseal-diaphyseal junction; more serious than avulsion; at risk for non-union; can be from acute injury OR stress (insidious onset in runners) | Pain is slightly more distal than the styloid process; can follow an ankle sprain or develop gradually with increasing activity; stress Jones fractures may have only mild swelling | Yes — point tenderness at the junction; pain increases with activity; non-weight-bearing may be required | URGENT — Jones fracture has 20-30% non-union rate if untreated; needs X-ray same day; may require surgery if displaced or athlete |
| Head of the 5th metatarsal (just behind the little toe) | Tailor’s bunion (bunionette) — progressive lateral drift of the 5th metatarsal head; creates a bony prominence at the MT head; worsened by narrow shoes; often bilateral | Gradually enlarging over years; visible medial deviation of the little toe; pain with shoe pressure (not at rest); callus formation at the lateral MT head; associated with wide forefoot | With shoe pressure only initially; later becomes painful at rest in severe cases | Not urgent — conservative (wider shoes, padding) effective early; progressive deformity may need surgical correction |
| Shaft of the 5th metatarsal (middle of the bone) | 5th metatarsal stress fracture — gradual onset of pain along the shaft with increasing activity; runners and military recruits; not a visible bony prominence but pain and swelling mimics one | Insidious onset with increased running mileage; pain along the shaft of the bone (not at the base or head); tender along the bone shaft; single-leg hop reproduces pain | Yes — point tenderness along the shaft; pain increases with activity, resolves with rest | Urgent — continued activity risks complete fracture; X-ray; may need MRI if negative (stress fractures invisible for 2-3 weeks on X-ray); boot or non-weight-bearing |
| Lateral ankle / below the fibula | Peroneal tendon subluxation or peroneal tendon tear — peroneal tendons snap over the lateral fibula; bump may be a snapping tendon or a retinaculum injury; also consider os peroneum (accessory bone in peroneus longus tendon) | Snapping or clicking with ankle rotation; bump may move with foot movement; lateral ankle pain not specifically at the metatarsal; often follows ankle sprain | With specific movements (ankle eversion, circumduction); tenderness along the tendon, not the bone | Non-urgent but needs MRI or ultrasound evaluation; peroneal tendon tears require surgical repair if symptomatic; os peroneum is often incidental |
Is the Bone on the Outside of Your Foot Normal? 3-Question Self-Assessment
| Question | Yes → Most Likely | No → Consider |
|---|---|---|
| Was the bump always there, or did it appear gradually over years? | Normal styloid process (anatomic variant) or slowly progressive tailor’s bunion — neither urgent; manage with shoe modification if symptomatic | If appeared suddenly or recently → acute fracture (avulsion or Jones fracture) until proven otherwise → X-ray |
| Is the bump at the BASE of the 5th metatarsal (closest to the heel), not at the toe end? | Styloid process (normal) or avulsion fracture; if present since childhood → normal anatomy; if appeared after ankle injury → avulsion fracture possible | If at the MT head (behind the little toe) → tailor’s bunion (bunionette); if along the midshaft → stress fracture or Jones fracture |
| Does the bump hurt when you press your finger directly on it FROM THE SIDE (not just when a shoe rubs it)? | Direct bony tenderness → fracture or pathologic process → X-ray within 24-48 hours regardless of other findings | No tenderness to direct palpation (only shoe pressure) → likely normal styloid process or early tailor’s bunion → manage conservatively |
When to See a Podiatrist for a Bone Sticking Out on the Lateral Foot
| Sign | Likely Diagnosis | Timeframe |
|---|---|---|
| Acute onset after ankle inversion injury with lateral foot pain and inability to bear weight | Avulsion fracture or Jones fracture — OTTAWA FOOT RULES positive | Same day — X-ray needed |
| Gradually worsening lateral bump that now hurts at rest (not just with shoe pressure) | Advanced tailor’s bunion or progressive bony change | Within 1-2 weeks |
| Lateral foot pain developing gradually with increased running mileage + tenderness along bone shaft | Stress fracture — needs imaging before continuing activity | Within 48 hours — stop running immediately |
| Visible deformity or angulation (bone appears misaligned compared to unaffected foot) | Displaced fracture — emergency | Emergency department same day |
| Snapping or clicking sensation at the lateral ankle with the bump | Peroneal tendon subluxation or tear | Within 1-2 weeks |
| Bump present since childhood — shoe rubbing only, no pain at rest | Normal styloid process — conservative management only | Elective — schedule at convenience; may only need wider footwear |
That bone protruding on the outside of your foot near the pinky toe — sometimes called a tailor’s bunion or bunionette — is often confused with a more serious accessory navicular. The treatment differs significantly.
You’re in the right place. Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM, FACFAS — board-certified foot & ankle surgeon with 3,000+ surgeries — explains exactly what a bone sticking out on the outside of your foot means and what works. Call (810) 206-1402 for same-day appointment at Howell or Bloomfield Hills.
Quick answer: Bone On Outside Of Foot Stick Out affects roughly 1 in 4 adults in our practice that affects many patients. Effective treatment starts with a targeted diagnosis, conservative-first treatment, and escalation only when needed. We treat this regularly at our Howell and Bloomfield Township practices. Call (810) 206-1402.
Does The Bone on the Outside of the Foot Stick Out?
Best Treatment
Does the bone on the outside of the foot stick out? 95+% of the time, this is a bone called your 5th metatarsal or the metatarsal styloid process!
Look:
We will show you an animated diagnosis & treatment guide, photos, and the best FAST treatment options outside the foot pain!
These are Simple & EASY options that we have seen success with.
Also included is our outside of the foot pain treatment video guide!
So, Let’s Get STARTED!
Schedule Your Consultation Today
What is The Bone on the Outside of My Foot?
Overview of Bones that Stick Out on The Side of The Foot
- The bone on the outside of the foot that sticks out is called the 5th metatarsal bone, and it is the bone that connects your midfoot/rearfoot to your 5th toe.
- This bone is the first bone in your forefoot to contact the ground during walking and run.
- Your heel bone and 5th toe could also be the bones sticking out on your foot!
- It is very commonly injured during running and ankle sprains. It can also develop a mini-complete bunion treatment guide called a bunionette.
Causes of Bones Sticking Out on the Outside of Your Foot
- There are many different causes of foot pain on the outside of the foot.
- Most of the time, this is just normal anatomy and has more to do with genetic differences within your foot.
- But sometimes, there could be abnormal diseases and problems developing.
- 95% of the time, in our experience, it is normal foot anatomy.
- Read below to find what is causing your pain!
Specific outside of the foot bone sticking out conditions:
These are the specific disorders and treatments for the bone sticking out on the outside of your foot!
5th Toe Hammertoe
- One of the most common prominences on the fifth toe is the formation of a hammertoe.
- Hammertoe is the abnormal bending of your fifth toe due to tightness in a shoe 90+ percent of the time.
- The pressure from the shoe will cause a thickening of the skin. This is a combination of either a corn or a callus.
- This can become very painful and become red and start robbing for some people.
- Hammertoe is best treated by gel padding and trimming down this court callus.
- We generally have success by changing shoes, patting, and avoiding surgery for the fifth toe.
Tailor’s Bunion
- Just behind the fifth toe, where the toe connects to the big toe joint/foot, a person can develop a Tailor’s bunion.
- A Tailor’s bunion is caused by the improper function of the foot and can slowly progress through your life.
- Some people naturally have thickening in this area, but for other people, it can be caused by tight shoes and lead to sick, inflamed tissue called the bursa.
- The fifth metatarsal joint bursa is a sack of inflamed tissue that protects and rubs against the bone prominence against your shoe.
- A Bursa is very spongy to the touch but can also become very painful.
- In our clinic, we generally treat this bursa with a cortisone injection, and almost in one visit, it can go away for most people.
- At other times a gel pad can be used to really make the pain go away quickly. Sometimes surgery could be used to make this go away.
5th Metatarsal Injuries or Pain
- Further down the foot closer to your ankle, along the side of the foot, you can develop further bone prominences. There is a bone here called the fifth metatarsal bone. This is behind the fifth toe joint closer to your ankle. A long bone flare out roughly in the middle of your foot is called your styloid process of the fifth metatarsal.
- In children ranging from ages 10 to 14, there can be a growth plate here that could cause pain. It can deftly cause the area to become swollen.
- If you feel like you have an injury here, an x-ray can show what is going on in this area. It could be a growth plate in the age range of 10-14, and you must be very careful that you don’t truly have an injury.
Peroneal Tendonitis
- At the styloid process of the fifth metatarsal, there is also a very thick tendon that attaches into this joint.
- If this tendon becomes swollen, it can deftly create a swelling on the side of your foot that can look like a bump. This is called peroneal tendinitis.
- If you felt that you might have twisted or sprained your ankle, this tendon might have been injured. It is widespread when your foot turns down and in.
Fracture of the Fifth Metatarsal
- Suppose you feel like you suffered an injury like a bump, a twist, or a large fall. You could’ve very easily broken your fifth metatarsal joint.
- This is many different names, but it is most commonly known as a Jones fracture.
- If you feel like you might’ve fractured this area, see a podiatrist or us near you and get this foot and ankle joint x-ray. An x-ray of this fifth metatarsal bone will show whether you have a fracture or not.
- Unfortunately, if you do have a fracture, it takes a long time, six weeks or more, to take pressure off this bone and let it heal. Some people do need surgery.
Lumps, Bumps, and Soft Tissue Swelling on the Outside of the Foot
- On top of the foot, but still on the outside, is a muscle called your extensor digitorum brevis muscle. This is a soft area on top of your foot. This muscle could easily get bruised with a bump, or it could even develop a large ganglion cyst that could appear like swelling.
- If the area is shrinking and decreasing in size, they could easily be fluid buildup in this muscle or cystic area. The best thing to do is get this ultrasound or even get an MRI for it continues to cause a problem.
- There is no way to 100% guarantee that there is not something cancerous here, although statistics show that it is a deficient percent of the time.
- If the area is painful, and a ganglion cyst is shown to be the cause, sometimes it makes sense to train this with the syringe in the office. Most podiatrists can do this in the office without taking you to the operating room.
Fat Pad on The Side of The Foot
- At the same time, if you stand and small little regions develop on the side of your foot, especially in groups, this could be a fat herniation.
- Herniation of your fat pad on the outside of your heel or foot is called a Piezogenic papule.
- A Piezogenic papule sometimes can look very scary, but it is not anything dangerous to worry about.
- I have never personally seen one removed, and you probably don’t need surgery or injections. Treating the cosmetics of your foot can sometimes result in even bigger problems.
- We personally discourage surgery for any cosmetic reason, only for functional reasons.
Porokeratosis
- This can be a hard clump that develops on the side of your foot. It is a combination of a callus that plugs sweat glands on your foot.
- Visiting your podiatrist for a porokeratosis can lead to the excision of these with the blade.
- There is not as painful as it sounds! Sometimes we can solve horrible pain within a couple of minutes, and it stays away for good.
Tumors on The Side of The Foot
- The most common type of tumor is what’s called a safe tumor.
- This is called lipoma. Lipomas are very common in people in this is a buildup of fat in a certain area.
- Lipomas generally are not dangerous.
- It is 100% impossible to guarantee that something is not dangerous.
- Sometimes you can develop a cancerous tumor on your foot, although this is extremely rare.
- This is one in a million type stuff. But that being said, you do have to visit your podiatrist or foot and ankle specialist to have this evaluated.
- Tumors that are cancerous or malignant on foot are sporadic.
Skin Conditions on the Side of the Foot
- Sometimes you could have foot fungus, dermatologic conditions such as inclusion cyst, or strange-looking calluses.
- Something we see frequently is also warts. Warts can be painful and very difficult to treat.
The Bone Can Stick Out in 3 Places:
1. At the Outside of the Base of the 5th Toe:
- This Bunionette can be treated at home, and the pain could be removed by following the treatment guide provided by clicking on the picture. Still, sometimes only surgery is the only way to remove the deformity and get your foot looking normal.
- If you choose to control the pain at home, you should get yourself some wider shoes, some over-the-counter inserts, and correct and conditions that are causing poor foot biomechanics.
Learn More with this guide:
2. At the Edge of the Outside Heel
- 3 conditions commonly occur at the base or styloid process of the 5th Metatarsal.
- A fracture of the 5th met base, as shown above- may require surgery or casting for a month or more; this really hurts, and you are barely able to walk on the side of your foot.
- If it does not hurt, then this thickening is a completely normal bone.
3. The Entire Outside of the Foot Hurts
- If there is pain across the entire outside of the foot, then it may be nerve pain. A nerve injury may feel like there is numbness, burning, and tingling.
- But if you have been running heavily lately or standing on your feet for long periods of time, this may be a 5th metatarsal stress fracture.
4. Pinky Toe Pain
- This guide will help you treat your 5th toe pain.
- This may be related to an ingrown toenail, broken toe, sprained toe, or nerve pain!
Other Outside of the Foot Pain Causes
Skin Problems
Calluses are thick patches of skin that appear in sites of friction against the shoe, the floor, or any other part of the foot. The danger is a blister can form underneath the callus!
A corn looks like a little pebble that can form; it usually occurs with a callus around them. This can be exceptionally painful.
Follow our at-home pain relief guides, how to trim your nails properly, and even how to remove them permanently.
Is it broken, or is it just bruised? These occur from stubbing your toe, so learn how to deal with them properly! Find out with this guide.
Bone and Joint Problems
Little Toe Bunion (Bunionette)
This is when your toe looks really big and as if though it is popping out at the base.
This is when you have a crooked or curved toe.
5th Metatarsal Pain
Cavus Foot- Styloid Process Protrusion
Os Vesalanium
Muscle & Tendon Pain
Peroneus Brevis Muscle Tendon Pain.
Peroneus Longus Muscle Tendon Pain.
Bone on the Outside of the Foot Sticking Out Causes
Walk This Way: Trusted Foot & Ankle Information
Learn what’s hurting and how to fix it.
Finding the best products for managing peripheral neuropathy and diabetic foot pain can make a world of difference in your daily comfort and mobility.
For managing foot pain from conditions like plantar fasciitis, flat feet, or diabetic neuropathy, the best orthotics can offer crucial support and relief.
Choosing the best shoes for foot conditions like neuropathy, plantar fasciitis, or flat feet is essential for pain relief and long-term foot health.
Athlete’s Foot
Ball of Foot
Achilles Tendon
Bunion
Big Toe
Callus
Foot Fungus
Gout
Ingrown
Orthotics
Outside of Foot Pain
Sports Podiatrist
Why Choose Balance Foot & Ankle Specialist in Howell and Bloomfield Hills?
Our experienced podiatric surgeons combine precision, care, and innovation to deliver successful outcomes in flatfoot reconstruction. With modern facilities, patient education, and compassionate care, we’ve become the trusted choice for foot and ankle surgery in Southeast Michigan. We’re committed to restoring your stride—comfortably and confidently.
Book Your Podiatrist Visit Now
Frequently Asked Questions About a Bone Sticking Out on the Outside of the Foot
What is the bone that sticks out on the outside of the foot?
It is often the fifth metatarsal bone, which can appear more prominent due to a condition like a tailor’s bunion (bunionette).
Is a bone sticking out of the foot always a bunionette?
Not always. It can also be a bone spur, ganglion cyst, or other foot deformity. A podiatrist should evaluate it for a proper diagnosis.
Is it normal to feel a hard lump on the outside of my foot?
While common in some foot conditions, any new or painful lump should be examined by a doctor to rule out serious issues.
Can shoes cause a bone to stick out on the side of the foot?
Yes, tight or narrow shoes can put pressure on the foot, possibly leading to deformities like a bunionette over time.
Is surgery required to fix a bone sticking out of the foot?
Not always. Conservative treatments like orthotics, wider shoes, and padding can relieve symptoms, but surgery may be needed in severe cases.
Can a bone spur cause a bump on the outside of the foot?
Yes. Bone spurs can develop due to joint stress or arthritis and may present as a hard bump on the side of the foot.
What kind of doctor treats bones sticking out of the foot?
A podiatrist or orthopedic foot and ankle specialist can diagnose and treat the condition.
How is a protruding bone on the foot diagnosed?
Diagnosis typically involves a physical exam and imaging tests like X-rays to determine the cause and treatment plan.
Related Treatment Guides
- Plantar Fasciitis & Heel Pain Treatment
- Custom 3D Orthotics
- Sports Foot & Ankle Injury Treatment
- Bunion Treatment
📧 Get Dr. Tom’s Free Lab Test Guide
Discover the 5 lab tests every person over 35 should ask their doctor about — explained in plain English by a board-certified physician.
📍 Located in Michigan?
Our board-certified podiatrists treat this condition at two convenient locations. Same-day appointments often available.
Does a Bone on the Outside of Your Foot Stick Out?
A prominent bone on the outer foot may be a bunionette, styloid process prominence, or bone spur. Our podiatrists evaluate the cause and offer treatments from padding to surgical correction.
📞 Or call us directly: (810) 206-1402
Clinical References
- Coughlin MJ. Treatment of bunionette deformity with longitudinal diaphyseal osteotomy with distal soft tissue repair. Foot and Ankle. 1991;11(4):195-203.
- Fallat LM, Buckholz J. An analysis of the tailor’s bunion by radiographic and anatomical display. Journal of the American Podiatric Medical Association. 1980;70(12):597-603.
- Schoenhaus HD, Cohen RS. Etiology of the bunionette deformity. Clinics in Podiatric Medicine and Surgery. 1990;7(2):345-355.
Insurance Accepted
BCBS · Medicare · Aetna · Cigna · United Healthcare · HAP · Priority Health · Humana · View All →
Howell Office
3980 E Grand River Ave, Suite 140
Howell, MI 48843
Get Directions →
Bloomfield Hills Office
43700 Woodward Ave, Suite 207
Bloomfield Hills, MI 48302
Get Directions →
Bone Bump on Outer Foot — Your Options
🏠
Conservative Care
- Switch to wider toe-box shoes
- Use a tailor’s bunion pad for cushioning
- Ice 15 min after long periods of standing
- Avoid tight shoes, heels, and narrow footwear
Start here — may take 4–8 weeks
🛒
Products I Recommend
- Tailor’s bunion gel pads
- Wide toe-box shoes
- Metatarsal pads for offloading
- Arch support insoles
👨⚕️
See a Podiatrist
- Pain limiting daily activities
- X-ray to confirm type of bone prominence
- Custom orthotics to offload the bump
- Surgical consultation if conservative care fails
⭐ 4.9 stars · 1,123 reviews · Balance Foot & Ankle · Howell & Bloomfield Hills MI
Your Board-Certified Podiatrists
Ready to Get Back on Your Feet?
Same-week appointments available at both locations.
Dr. Tom’s Top 3 — The Premium Foot Pain Stack (2026)
If you only buy three things for foot pain, get these. PowerStep + CURREX orthotics correct the underlying foot mechanics, and Dr. Hoy’s pain gel delivers fast topical relief. This is the exact stack Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM gives his Michigan podiatry patients on visit one — over 10,000 patients have used this exact combination.
Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM is a board-certified podiatrist + Amazon Associate. Picks shown are products he prescribes to patients at Balance Foot & Ankle Specialists. We earn a commission on qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you. All products independently tested + reviewed for 30+ days minimum. Last verified: April 28, 2026.
PowerStep Pinnacle MaxxDr. Tom’s #1 Brand
4.5
(28,341+ reviews)
Dr. Tom’s most-prescribed OTC orthotic. Lateral wedge corrects overpronation that causes 90% of foot pain. Deep heel cradle stabilizes the ankle. Built by podiatrists, used by patients worldwide.
- Lateral wedge corrects pronation
- Deep heel cradle stabilizes ankle
- Dual-density EVA — comfort + support
- Trim-to-fit any shoe
- Used by 10,000+ podiatrists
- Trim-to-size required
- 5-7 day break-in for some
This single insole eliminates plantar fasciitis pain in 60% of patients within 2 weeks. The lateral wedge is the active ingredient — it stops the overpronation that causes the fascia to overstretch with every step. Pair with a max-cushion shoe for compound effect.
CURREX RunProDr. Tom’s #1 Brand
4.4
(4,000+ reviews)
3 arch heights for custom fit (Low/Med/High). Carbon-reinforced heel + dynamic forefoot — the closest OTC orthotic to a $500 custom orthotic. Engineered in Germany.
- 3 arch heights for custom fit
- Carbon-reinforced heel cup
- Dynamic forefoot zone
- Premium German engineering
- Sport-specific support
- Pricier than PowerStep
- 7-10 day break-in
Choose your arch height from a wet-foot test (low/med/high). Wrong arch = re-injury. For runners, athletes, or anyone who failed standard insoles — this is the closest you can get to custom orthotics without paying $500. The carbon heel is what professional athletes use.
Dr. Hoy’s Natural Pain Relief GelDr. Tom’s #1 Brand
4.6
(5,500+ reviews)
Menthol-based natural pain relief — Dr. Tom’s #1 brand for fast relief without greasy residue. Safe for diabetics + daily use. Cleaner formula than Voltaren or Biofreeze.
- Menthol-based natural formula
- No greasy residue
- Safe for diabetics
- Fast cooling relief — 5-10 minutes
- Cleaner ingredient list than Biofreeze
- Pricier than Biofreeze
- Strong menthol scent at first
Apply to plantar fascia + calves before bed. Combined with stretching, eliminates morning fascia pain. The clean formula means you can use it daily long-term — Voltaren has 30-day limits, Dr. Hoy’s doesn’t.
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I see a podiatrist?
If symptoms persist past 2 weeks, affect your normal activity, or are accompanied by red-flag symptoms (warmth, redness, swelling, inability to bear weight).
What does treatment cost?
Most diagnostic visits and conservative treatments are covered by Medicare and major insurers. Out-of-pocket costs vary by your specific plan.
How quickly can I get an appointment?
Most non-urgent cases see us within 5 business days. Urgent cases (sudden pain, possible fracture) typically same or next business day.
Dr. Tom’s Lateral Foot Prominence Pain Protocol
- Doctor Hoy’s Natural Pain Relief Gel — Peroneal tendon pain or bony prominence irritation from shoes: arnica + camphor gel applied to the lateral 5th metatarsal base reduces periosteal inflammation. (30% commission)
- PowerStep Pinnacle — Lateral column overload from supination or cavus foot: arch support with lateral posting reduces the pressure concentration at the 5th metatarsal base. (30% commission)
- FLAT SOCKS No-Sock Insoles — Shoe friction over lateral foot prominence: FLAT SOCKS no-sock inserts create a smooth barrier between the prominent bony area and shoe upper. (30% commission)
Lateral foot prominence growing, painful, or showing skin breakdown? Same-day X-ray at Balance Foot & Ankle to rule out Jones fracture. → (810) 206-1402
What is Foot pain?
Foot pain is a common foot/ankle condition that affects mobility and quality of life. Understanding the underlying cause is the first step in successful treatment. Our podiatrists at Balance Foot & Ankle perform a hands-on biomechanical exam, review your activity history, and use diagnostic imaging when appropriate to identify the root cause—not just treat the symptom. Many patients have been told to “rest and ice” without a deeper diagnostic workup; our approach is different.
Symptoms and warning signs
Common signs of foot pain include pain that worsens with activity, morning stiffness, swelling, tenderness when palpated, and difficulty bearing weight. If you experience sudden severe pain, inability to walk, visible deformity, numbness or color change, contact our office the same day or visit urgent care—these can signal a more serious injury such as a fracture, tendon rupture, or vascular compromise. Diabetics with any foot wound should seek same-day care.
Conservative treatment options
Most cases of foot pain respond to non-surgical care: structured rest, supportive footwear changes, custom orthotics, targeted stretching and strengthening protocols, anti-inflammatory medications when medically appropriate, and in-office procedures such as ultrasound-guided injections. We also offer advanced therapies including MLS laser therapy, EPAT/shockwave, regenerative injections, and image-guided procedures. Treatment is sequenced from least invasive to most invasive, and we explain the rationale at every step.
When is surgery considered?
Surgery is reserved for cases that fail 3-6 months of well-structured conservative care, when there is structural pathology (severe deformity, complete tear, advanced arthritis), or when imaging shows damage that will not heal without intervention. Our surgeons have performed 3,000+ foot and ankle procedures and prioritize minimally-invasive techniques whenever appropriate. We discuss recovery timelines, return-to-activity milestones, and realistic outcome expectations before any procedure is scheduled.
Recovery timeline and prevention
Recovery from foot pain varies based on severity and chosen treatment path. Conservative cases often improve within 4-8 weeks with consistent adherence to the protocol. Post-procedural recovery may range from a few days (in-office procedures) to several months (reconstructive surgery). Long-term prevention involves footwear assessment, activity modification, structured strengthening, and regular check-ins with your podiatrist if you have a history of recurrence. We provide written home-exercise plans and digital follow-up support.
Ready to feel better?
Same-week appointments available in Howell and Bloomfield Hills, Michigan.
Ready to fix this for good?
Reading about the problem only goes so far. The fastest path to relief is a 30-minute office visit with a board-certified foot & ankle surgeon who has done this 3,000+ times. Same-day appointments at Howell and Bloomfield Hills. Most insurance accepted — BCBS, Medicare, Humana, Cigna. 4.9-star Google rating across 475+ reviews. Call (810) 206-1402 or book online.
In-Office Treatment at Balance Foot & Ankle
If home treatment isn’t providing relief for your foot pain, our podiatry team at Balance Foot & Ankle can help with same-day evaluations and advanced in-office care.
Ready to Get Relief?
Same-day appointments available in Howell & Bloomfield Hills, MI
4.9★ | 1,123 Reviews | 3,000+ Surgeries
Or call: (810) 206-1402
Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM is a double board-certified podiatrist and foot & ankle surgeon at Balance Foot & Ankle Specialists in Southeast Michigan. With over a decade of clinical experience, he specializes in heel pain, bunions, diabetic foot care, sports injuries, and minimally invasive surgery. Dr. Biernacki is a member of the APMA and ACFAS, and his patient education content on MichiganFootDoctors.com and YouTube has reached over one million views.
2 thoughts on “Bone Sticking Out on Outside of Foot 2026: Causes & Fixes | DPM”
Comments are closed.