Lateral Foot Pain and Cuboid Syndrome

Lateral foot pain is discomfort felt along the outer side of the foot, often linked to cuboid syndrome. This condition occurs when the cuboid bone becomes partially dislocated or restricted, leading to aching, sharp pain, or difficulty bearing weight. Symptoms may include tenderness, swelling, stiffness, and pain during walking, running, or standing on tiptoe. Causes often involve repetitive stress, ankle sprains, wearing poor footwear, or sudden twisting motions. If left untreated, cuboid syndrome can limit mobility and lead to chronic discomfort. A chiropodist can diagnose the condition, realign the cuboid bone, recommend custom orthotics, and provide rehabilitation strategies. If you are experiencing persistent lateral foot pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a chiropodist for expert care.

Cuboid syndrome, also known as cuboid subluxation, occurs when the joint and ligaments surrounding the cuboid bone in the foot become injured. If you think that you may have cuboid syndrome, please consult with one of the chiropodists from The Footcare Centre. Our chiropodists will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment. 

Causes

The cuboid bone is one of the seven tarsal bones located in the foot. Cuboid syndrome develops when the cuboid bone moves down and out of alignment with the other bone (calcaneus bone) in the joint of the foot. Cuboid syndrome can be the result of a sudden injury like an ankle sprain, or it may develop slowly over time from repetitive tension through the bone and surrounding structures. 

Symptoms

The most common symptom of cuboid syndrome is pain on the outside of the foot which may worsen with activity. 

Other possible symptoms include: 

  • Difficulty bearing weight on the affected foot
  • Swelling
  • Sensitivity on the bottom of the foot
  • Reduced range of motion  

Diagnosis

A chiropodist can diagnose cuboid syndrome based on your medical history and a physical examination of the foot. Imaging studies, such as X-rays or MRIs, often fail to show the dislocated cuboid. 

Treatment

Treatment often includes resting, icing, compressing and elevating the affected foot, taping, wearing orthotic inserts, and taking anti-inflammatory medications to reduce pain. The chiropodist may also be able to manipulate the dislocated bone back into alignment.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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Simple Movements to Ease Arthritis in the Feet

Arthritis in the feet can limit daily activities and make walking or standing painful. Gentle movements designed to improve flexibility and strengthen muscles can help reduce stiffness and discomfort. With regular practice and guidance from a chiropodist, these routines may support healthier joints and improve mobility. The towel scrunch is one helpful option. Place a towel on the floor and use your toes to scrunch it toward you. Repeat this several times to build strength in the small muscles of the feet. The big toe flexor exercise targets the largest toe joint. Loop a resistance band around your big toe, pressing it downward against the band for a few seconds, then release slowly. This helps improve control and reduce stiffness. Additionally, a calf stretch can ease tightness in the Achilles tendon and relieve pressure on the feet. Stand facing a wall with one foot back, keeping the heel on the ground, and gently lean forward until a stretch is felt. If you suffer from foot arthritis, it is suggested that you visit a chiropodist who can guide you in choosing the right movements for your specific needs, as well as providing other relief options..

Osteoarthritis in the feet or ankles can be a painful and disabling condition that may interfere with your daily activities. If you have arthritis, please consult with one of the chiropodists from The Footcare Centre. Our chiropodists will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment. 

What Is Osteoarthritis? 

Osteoarthritis is a condition in which the protective layer of cartilage in the joints breaks down over time. This loss of cartilage causes the bones to rub together during movement, leading to pain and inflammation. Osteoarthritis is associated with aging, and often affects the small joints of the feet and ankles. 

Symptoms

Symptoms of osteoarthritis include: 

  • Joint pain
  • Joint stiffness
  • Swelling in or around the joint
  • Restricted range of motion
  • Difficulty walking

Diagnosis

Osteoarthritis can be diagnosed through physical examination. You may also need to have an X-ray taken to assess the extent of the damage caused by arthritis. 

Treatment

Treatment for osteoarthritis focuses on reducing symptoms and improving the function of the affected joints. Conservative treatments include oral pain medications, orthotic devices, bracing or immobilizing the affected foot or ankle, steroid injections into the affected joint to reduce inflammation, and physical therapy. In more severe cases, surgery may be necessary. 

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs

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Recognizing the Signs of a Toe Fracture

A toe fracture can result from direct trauma or repetitive stress and often presents with noticeable symptoms. Common signs include a bent toe positioned at an abnormal angle, pain when walking, swelling, bruising, and an inability to put weight on the affected toe. Diagnosis typically involves a physical examination and imaging to confirm the break. Treatment may include rest, elevation, and the use of buddy tape to stabilize the injured toe. A chiropodist can provide a thorough assessment, guide recovery, and ensure proper healing to prevent long-term complications. If you or your child has sustained a toe fracture, it is suggested that you seek professional care from a chiropodist who can accurately diagnose and effectively treat a broken toe. 

A broken toe typically occurs following either a sudden, traumatic injury, like dropping a heavy piece of furniture on the toe. The impact causes the bone to fracture and produces a variety of painful symptoms. If you suspect that you’ve broken your toe, please consult with one of the chiropodists from The Footcare Centre. Our chiropodists can help you maintain the health of your lower limbs and your mobility. 

Symptoms

  • Throbbing pain
  • Swelling
  • Bruising
  • Cracking sound at the time of injury
  • Difficulty bearing weight on the toe
  • Difficulty walking
  • Toe resting at an unnatural angle

Diagnosis

Your chiropodist can diagnose a broken toe through physical examination and imaging studies, such as X-rays. 

Treatment

The main goals of treatment are to ensure that the bone heals properly, as a toe fracture that doesn’t heal properly can lead to osteoarthritis. You will typically need to rest the affected toe. You may be prescribed a splint to immobilize the toe while it heals. Icing the affected toe and taking over-the-counter medications can help reduce pain. In cases of severe fractures, surgery may be necessary to reset the broken bones and make sure that they heal correctly.  

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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Plantar Warts Can Be Treated!

Plantar warts are small growths that develop on parts of the feet that bear weight. They're typically found on the bottom of the foot. Don't live with plantar warts, and call us today!

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