Odd protrusions in feet.

Hello,

I've a question regarding my feet. On the exteriors of both of my feet, about half way between the toes and ankle, are small protrusions that are hard and feel like bone (they seem to be located near the base of the 5th metatarsals) They cause the skin to turn red, I don't know if this is from irritation. Only very occasionally they cause me slight discomfort, but never any pain, and I never have trouble running or walking. It is strange though, as I've never noticed them before. I only noticed them for the first time maybe a month ago.

The only thing I've been doing differently regarding foot health is wearing vibram five finger running shoes, which aren't really shoes but more like a protective glove for the foot to simulate barefoot running. I've been running in these for about a year. I've read cases of users of these shoes developing stress fractures, so I was a bit concerned. Does what I described above seem like something that needs attention? Thanks for your time.

[S. Kaul, MD]

Hi there!

These could be bony outgrowths, osteophytes or spurs or any inflammatory mass or cyst; though if it appears to be hard the former is more likely. A fracture with malalignment is a possibility that may need to be considered as well; though without an evaluation it would be difficult to predict a cause. I would suggest an evaluation by a primary care physician/ orthopedician for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate management.
Hope this helps.

Take care!