The outside of the foot is generally where pain is felt from cuboid syndrome. This is a foot condition that happens when the small cuboid bone becomes partially dislocated. This can occur suddenly, after an ankle is sprained, or gradually develop from repetitive use. The cuboid bone connects to the heel bone through ligaments and joints. The surrounding soft tissues may be damaged by an injury, and this may trigger the cuboid bone to move out of alignment. Research has shown that cuboid syndrome may be prevalent among people who have flat feet, which may affect the alignment of this bone. Patients can experience symptoms that can include swelling, tenderness, and weakness in the foot. Walking may be difficult, and the pain may become worse when physical activity is pursued. If you have pain in this part of your foot, please consult a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose cuboid syndrome and offer the treatment that is best for you. 

Cuboid syndrome, also known as cuboid subluxation, occurs when the joints and ligaments near the cuboid bone in the foot become torn. If you have cuboid syndrome, consult with Philip C. Caswell, DPM from Family Foot & Ankle Care. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Cuboid syndrome is a common cause of lateral foot pain, which is pain on the outside of the foot. The condition may happen suddenly due to an ankle sprain, or it may develop slowly overtime from repetitive tension through the bone and surrounding structures.

Causes

The most common causes of cuboid syndrome include:

• Injury – The most common cause of this ailment is an ankle sprain.
• Repetitive Strain – Tension placed through the peroneus longus muscle from repetitive activities such as jumping and running may cause excessive traction on the bone causing it to sublux.
• Altered Foot Biomechanics – Most people suffering from cuboid subluxation have flat feet.

Symptoms

A common symptom of cuboid syndrome is pain along the outside of the foot which can be felt in the ankle and toes. This pain may create walking difficulties and may cause those with the condition to walk with a limp.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of cuboid syndrome is often difficult, and it is often misdiagnosed. X-rays, MRIs and CT scans often fail to properly show the cuboid subluxation. Although there isn’t a specific test used to diagnose cuboid syndrome, your podiatrist will usually check if pain is felt while pressing firmly on the cuboid bone of your foot.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are ice therapy, rest, exercise, taping, and orthotics.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Sparta, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.