One common foot affliction that can cause serious pain is known as cuboid syndrome. This condition causes pain primarily on the outer area of the foot, termed lateral foot pain. Cuboid syndrome occurs when the cuboid bone, a particularly small bone on the outside of the foot, dislocates. This dislocation can be caused either by ankle sprains or repeated trauma on the peroneus longus muscle. There are a number of symptoms that you may experience when you develop cuboid syndrome. In addition to lateral foot pain, you may notice yourself limping when you walk. Limping is common for people experiencing cuboid syndrome, because it indicates that the person is attempting to avoid walking on the cuboid bone. In addition, those suffering from cuboid syndrome might experience swelling and tenderness in the dislocated bone. Although symptoms can vary from patient to patient, you might also experience a feeling of weakness in the entire foot. This weakness can be most pronounced when beginning to jump or run. Cuboid syndrome can detrimentally affect the health of your feet and your lifestyle. It is suggested that you seek the help of a podiatrist to mitigate the pain and treat the condition.

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 Kristopher Jerry, DPM  from Podiatry Health Services . 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 offices located in Port St Lucie, Stuart, and Hollywood, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.