Quick guide
This page provides general health information and does not diagnose an individual condition. Persistent, worsening or concerning symptoms should be assessed by an appropriately qualified health professional.

Understanding the problem

The fifth metatarsal, peroneal tendons and several small joints sit along the outside of the foot. Pain can develop after an ankle roll, a change in activity or repeated loading.

Common causes

Peroneal tendon irritation or injury
Fifth metatarsal fracture or stress injury
Cuboid-region joint irritation
Ankle sprain extending into the foot
Footwear pressure
Altered loading

What can you do?

Reduce activities that clearly provoke pain.
Use stable, comfortable footwear.
After an ankle roll, notice whether there is focal tenderness over the fifth metatarsal as well as the ankle.
Persistent lateral-foot pain should be assessed rather than treated indefinitely as a simple sprain.

When not to wait
Seek prompt assessment if you cannot bear weight after injury, have significant swelling or bruising, or have very focal tenderness over the fifth metatarsal.

The Footpath Health approach

Footpath Health is designed to help you move from a symptom or question toward an appropriate next step without pretending that an online article can make an individual diagnosis. Sometimes that next step is self-management; sometimes it is podiatry, physiotherapy or GP assessment; and sometimes imaging or specialist care is appropriate.

Still not sure what the right next step is?

Tell Footpath Health what is bothering you and we can help guide you towards the most appropriate type of healthcare professional.

Start the Footpath Health assessment →