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Cuboid syndrome is a foot condition in which the cuboid bone has been displaced due to stress on the foot. Someone with cuboid syndrome may experience pain on the outer side of the foot, particularly in the midfoot area, which can worsen with weight-bearing activities like walking or running. The patient’s foot may be swollen, tender to the touch, and difficult to stand on. Additionally, they might complain of discomfort or pain during sports and physical activity. Early recognition and intervention can help alleviate symptoms and prevent long-term complications, allowing patients to return to their normal activities. If you have any of these symptoms, it is suggested you seek medical attention from a podiatrist who can diagnose and treat the source of the pain. 

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 one of our podiatrists from Foot and Ankle Clinics, PA. Our doctors 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 Woodbury, West St. Paul, and Edina, MN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Understanding toe walking in toddlers is important for parents to discern normal development from potential issues. It's common for children under two years old to exhibit toe walking as they learn to walk. Toe walking is defined as the absence of heel strike during initial contact. It typically resolves as the child grows older, with most children demonstrating ankle dorsiflexion by age of five. However, toe walking can also be associated with specific conditions like cerebral palsy, muscular dystrophy, or autism spectrum disorders. For that reason, it's important to distinguish idiopathic toe walking, or ITW, where no pathology exists, from toe walking caused by underlying conditions. Recent studies suggest that more than half of young toe walkers will not face significant developmental or neuropsychiatric issues. While parents should monitor their child's development closely, toe walking alone isn't always indicative of a serious problem. If your child continues to toe walk past the age of five, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can conduct a thorough exam and suggest the next course of action. 

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Foot and Ankle Clinics, PA. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Biomechanics in Podiatry

Podiatric biomechanics is a particular sector of specialty podiatry with licensed practitioners who are trained to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the foot, ankle and lower leg. Biomechanics deals with the forces that act against the body, causing an interference with the biological structures. It focuses on the movement of the ankle, the foot and the forces that interact with them.

A History of Biomechanics

• Biomechanics dates back to the BC era in Egypt where evidence of professional foot care has been recorded.
• In 1974, biomechanics gained a higher profile from the studies of Merton Root, who claimed that by changing or controlling the forces between the ankle and the foot, corrections or conditions could be implemented to gain strength and coordination in the area.

Modern technological improvements are based on past theories and therapeutic processes that provide a better understanding of podiatric concepts for biomechanics. Computers can provide accurate information about the forces and patterns of the feet and lower legs.

Understanding biomechanics of the feet can help improve and eliminate pain, stopping further stress to the foot.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Woodbury, West St. Paul, and Edina, MN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

In today's fast-paced world, the rising concern of obesity has become a significant health issue, affecting various aspects of our well-being. One often overlooked consequence of obesity is its profound impact on foot health. The excess weight carried by obese individuals places an immense burden on the feet, leading to a myriad of problems. Feet, being the foundation of our body, bear the brunt of this added pressure, causing strain on joints, ligaments, bones, and tendons. Over time, this strain can result in conditions such as plantar fasciitis, flat feet, and arthritis. The increased load also hampers circulation, contributing to swelling and discomfort. Neglecting foot health in the context of obesity can exacerbate these issues, impacting overall mobility and quality of life. Recognizing the intricate connection between obesity and foot health is vital for fostering a proactive approach to address this concern. If you are overweight and have foot pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can help you to see the connection and provide appropriate relief options.

The more you weigh, the harder your feet must work to support your body. If you’re an obese individual and are concerned about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Foot and Ankle Clinics, PA. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Obesity and Your Feet

People who are overweight are putting more pressure on their ankles, knees, and hips as well as their feet. This unfortunately can lead to variety of different issues.

Problems & Complications Stemming from Obesity

• When the body is overweight, it tries to compensate by changing the way that it moves. An obese person may lean forward and put extra weight on the wrong part of the foot. This puts unnecessary stress on the feet.
• Obese people are also more likely to develop type II diabetes which is a condition that causes a lot of foot problems. People with diabetes often don’t feel the cuts and sores that they may have on their feet, which can lead to more complicated and severe issues.
• Plantar fasciitis is another foot condition that can be caused by obesity. Plantar fasciitis is an inflammation of the tissue along the bottom of the foot, which causes pain and stiffness while walking and climbing stairs.

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Woodbury, West St. Paul, and Edina, MN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Custom-made orthotics are often an effective solution for alleviating foot pain and promoting overall foot health. These specially crafted insoles are designed to provide personalized support and cushioning, catering to the unique needs of an individual. Orthotics work by offering targeted support to areas of the foot that may be experiencing discomfort or strain. They can help correct issues like overpronation or underpronation, which can lead to various foot problems. By providing proper alignment and cushioning, custom orthotics can reduce pressure on the arches, heels, and metatarsal areas, addressing conditions such as plantar fasciitis, bunions, or flat feet. One significant advantage of custom orthotics is their tailored fit. They are created based on a detailed analysis of an individual's foot structure and gait pattern, ensuring a precise and comfortable fit. Whether you are an athlete seeking improved performance or someone dealing with chronic foot pain, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist to discuss whether custom-made orthotics can help you.

If you are having discomfort in your feet and would like to try orthotics, contact one of our podiatrists from Foot and Ankle Clinics, PA. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Are Orthotics?

Orthotics are inserts you can place into your shoes to help with a variety of foot problems such as flat feet or foot pain. Orthotics provide relief and comfort for minor foot and heel pain but can’t correct serious biomechanical problems in your feet.

Over-the-Counter Inserts

Orthotics come in a wide variety of over-the-counter inserts that are used to treat foot pain, heel pain, and minor problems. For example, arch supports can be inserted into your shoes to help correct overarched or flat feet, while gel insoles are often used because they provide comfort and relief from foot and heel pain by alleviating pressure.

Prescription Orthotics

If over-the-counter inserts don’t work for you or if you have a more severe foot concern, it is possible to have your podiatrist prescribe custom orthotics. These high-quality inserts are designed to treat problems such as abnormal motion, plantar fasciitis, and severe forms of heel pain. They can even be used to help patients suffering from diabetes by treating foot ulcers and painful calluses and are usually molded to your feet individually, which allows them to provide full support and comfort.

If you are experiencing minor to severe foot or heel pain, it’s recommended to speak with your podiatrist about the possibilities of using orthotics. A podiatrist can determine which type of orthotic is right for you and allow you to take the first steps towards being pain-free.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Woodbury, West St. Paul, and Edina, MN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.