I have been feeling a persistent pain along the outer edge of my left foot which worsens after getting up in the morning. the pain subsides but never goes away. could it beplantar fasciitis?

Lateral foot pain: Consider plantar fasciitis, entrapped lateral nerve, arthritis, or stress fracture/bone contusion.

Most likely yes...: Plantar fasciitis is the first thing that comes to mind. Be mindful of shoe choice during the day, wear them throughout the day (instead of bare or sock feet), stretch out your feet at bedtime, and try an over the counter anti-inflammatory medicine like ibuprofen. If this doesn't work, see your physician.

Could be...: Plantar fascitis if the pains occur mainly in the heel area and even possibly the arch. It could also be generalized arthritis and a number of other possibilities. Take the insoles out of your shoes and replace them with ones that have more arch support. The one i recommend most is the spenco polysorb cross-trainer insole. If you don't need as much cushioning, the total support is also good.

Thanks for asking!: Its possible that - multiple reasons-pathology can exist-- there is water retention - edema secondary to arthritis------ and activities will reduce pain once you wake up and keep moving-it reduces retention.