Cuboid syndrome occurs when the cuboid bone becomes slightly displaced or irritated. The cuboid is a bone on the outer side of the midfoot, near the base of the fourth and fifth toes. This area helps support the foot during walking. When the joint or surrounding tissues become stressed, pain can develop along the outside of the foot. Cuboid syndrome can make activities uncomfortable, especially when standing, walking, or pushing off the foot.
Common symptoms include aching or sharp pain on the outer middle portion of the foot. Pain may become worse when walking, running, or putting pressure on the affected foot. Swelling or tenderness may develop around the cuboid area. Difficulty walking can occur when symptoms are more severe. Because several foot conditions can cause similar symptoms, an accurate diagnosis is important.
Cuboid syndrome may develop after an ankle sprain, especially when the foot rolls outward during an injury. Repetitive stress from running or jumping can also irritate the cuboid joint. Risk factors include high-impact sports, wearing poorly supportive footwear, and foot mechanics that increase pressure on the outside of the foot. A podiatrist will examine the foot, check movement and tenderness, and review how the injury occurred. Imaging tests may be recommended when another injury needs to be ruled out.
Treatment depends on the cause and severity of the condition. A podiatrist may recommend rest, activity changes, and measures to reduce swelling. The foot may be gently manipulated to help restore normal cuboid position when appropriate. Taping or padding can provide additional support while the foot heals. More severe cases may require immobilization and a gradual return to activity. If you have symptoms of cuboid syndrome, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for effective relief and treatment solutions.
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 Arnold Farbstein, DPM from Texas. 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 Houston, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
