What is Cuboid Syndrome & How is it Treated?

Sep 2, 2022 | General Podiatry

Cuboid-Syndrome-sports

Cuboid syndrome is a condition where the cuboid bone becomes misaligned. It is also referred to as subluxation of the mid-tarsal joint. This is often a result of an injury to the joint or ligaments surrounding the small tarsal bone and can be difficult to diagnose.

Cuboid-Syndrome-sports

What are the Symptoms ?

The most common symptom is sudden or slowly developing pain to the outer side, or lateral side of the foot. Other common symptoms of cuboid syndrome are;

  • Pain increases when weight-bearing
  • Dull and aching or sharp pain to the area
  • Difficulty walking or hopping
  • Swelling
  • Pain when pushing off the toe or the heel
  • Reduced movement of foot or ankle
  • Redness near the area
  • Loss of mobility in your ankle on the lateral side
  • Weakness of toes or foot on the lateral side
  • Limping or swaying due to pain.

If you are suffering from any of the above symptoms, consider seeking an assessment from a Podiatrist.

What Causes Cuboid Syndrome?

It can be caused by a wide variety of ankle and foot injuries and movements such as;

  • Overuse of the area
  • Sprained or injured ankle
  • Pronated/ flat feet or Supinated/ high arch feet
  • Sports with side-to-side movements
  • Poorly fitting shoes
  • Running on uneven surfaces
  • Lack of rest or recovery after exercise
  • Fracture

There are some conditions that can put you at a higher risk of cuboid syndrome including arthritis and osteoporosis.

How is Cuboid Syndrome Treated?

The treatment for cuboid syndrome begins with rest, avoid weight bearing of the injured foot and apply ice, compression and elevate the foot.

If this does not relieve the pain, seek advice from your Podiatrist. They may treat the foot with:

  • Foot Mobilisation Technique
  • Strapping & Padding
  • Orthotics
  • Exercise Therapy
  • Footwear Advice

Surgery is rarely recommended for this condition.

Moreland Podiatry – Cuboid Syndrome

If you have ongoing pain in your feet, it is important to have your feet assessed by a Podiatrist to determine what is causing the pain. Book an appointment online or speak to our friendly staff at Moreland Podiatry today on (03) 9383 6633.