All About Cuboid Syndrome

30 Aug, 2024

All About Cuboid Syndrome

Have you ever had a sharp pain on the outer side of your foot that just wouldn’t go away? Maybe you twisted your ankle and now every step feels like you’re walking on a bruise. If this sounds familiar, you might be dealing with something called cuboid syndrome.

Don’t worry if you’ve never heard of it before – this condition is often overlooked, even though it can cause a lot of discomfort. In this brief article brought to you by Mid Penn Foot & Ankle Specialists, we break it down and review what cuboid syndrome is, what causes it, and most importantly, how you can get back on your feet without pain.

If you’d rather consult with a licensed podiatrist in Thomasville, then call Mid Penn Foot & Ankle Specialists to schedule a convenient appointment.

What is cuboid syndrome?

Cuboid syndrome is when a small bone in your foot, called the cuboid bone, gets slightly out of place. The cuboid bone is located on the outer side of your foot near the base of your fourth and fifth toes. It plays a key role in stabilizing your foot and helping you balance. When this bone shifts even a little bit, it can lead to pain and make it hard to walk or run.

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How does it happen?

Cuboid syndrome can happen to anyone, but certain activities and situations make it more likely:

Twisting Your Ankle: If you’ve ever rolled your ankle—especially inward—you’ve put pressure on the cuboid bone. This is one of the most common ways people end up with cuboid syndrome.
Overuse: If you’re a runner, dancer, or athlete who spends a lot of time on your feet, you might put repeated stress on your cuboid bone. Over time, this can cause the bone to move out of place.
Foot Shape and Movement: People with flat feet or who overpronate (where your foot rolls inward too much when you walk) are more prone to cuboid syndrome because these conditions put extra stress on the cuboid bone.
Wearing the Wrong Shoes: Shoes that don’t fit well or don’t provide enough support can also be culprits. Tight shoes, in particular, can force your foot into an unnatural position, increasing the risk of cuboid syndrome.

How is it diagnosed?

Diagnosing cuboid syndrome can be tricky because its symptoms can be similar to other foot problems, like stress fractures or tendon issues. If you think you might have cuboid syndrome, it’s a good idea to see an experienced foot doctor. They’ll usually do a physical exam and ask about your symptoms and any recent injuries. In some cases, they might use special tests to see if the cuboid bone is out of place, but X-rays or MRIs are rarely needed.

How is it treated?

The good news is that cuboid syndrome is treatable, and with the right approach, you can get back to your usual activities without pain. Common treatments include:

One of the quickest ways to fix cuboid syndrome is through manual manipulation.
After the bone is back in place, taping or padding can help keep it there while your foot heals.
As with many injuries, resting your foot, foot care, and applying ice can help reduce pain and swelling.
Switching to shoes that provide better support can make a big difference.
Strengthening and stretching exercises can help improve your foot’s stability and prevent future issues.

If you’d like to consult with a reliable foot specialist, then call Mid Penn Foot & Ankle Specialists. We are happy to schedule an appointment or arrange a walk-in for as soon as possible.