August 2022

Cuboid syndrome is a condition that involves a disruption of the normal alignment of the cuboid bone with the heel bone, and it causes pain on the outside of the foot. The pain might feel like it originates from the outside of the ankle, and the person afflicted with it may limp or sway when walking to avoid placing weight on the affected area. Mild swelling or bruising might be seen on the outside and bottom of the mid-foot. This problem develop from a single event, such as an ankle sprain, or through repetitive impact to the area, like runners or dancers (particularly ballet dancers) might experience. A small “popping” might be felt on the outside of the mid-foot as well. Treatment of cuboid syndrome usually involves making sure shoes are well-fitting and comfortable, using soft orthotics, and doing stretching exercises to help mobilize the joint. In some instances, realignment of the cuboid bone is needed. If you feel pain in your mid-foot area and it is worsening, you might have a more severe case of cuboid syndrome. You can see a podiatrist who can properly diagnose the problem and provide appropriate treatment.

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 Chukwuma Ukata, DPM from Advanced Carolina Foot and Ankle Center. 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 Garner, NC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.