Cuboid syndrome is a possible cause of pain along the outer side of the foot. The cuboid is a small bone located in the middle and outer portion of the foot. It works with nearby joints and tissues to support movement and stability. Cuboid syndrome may occur when this bone and its surrounding joint do not move normally. It can develop after an ankle sprain or from repeated stress placed on the foot. Athletes may be especially affected because running and jumping can place repeated forces on this area. Pain can sometimes be difficult to identify because cuboid syndrome may resemble other causes of lateral foot pain.

Symptoms often include aching or tenderness along the outside of the midfoot. Pain may become more noticeable while standing, walking, or pushing off the foot. Some people develop swelling or experience discomfort that extends toward nearby areas. The condition may also change the way a person walks because placing normal pressure on the foot becomes painful. Cuboid syndrome can occur after an ankle injury, even when the original ankle symptoms begin to improve. There is no single test that confirms every case, so a careful examination is important. Other problems, including fractures and tendon injuries, may need to be ruled out before treatment begins.

A podiatrist can evaluate lateral foot pain and determine whether cuboid syndrome or another condition may be responsible. The examination may include checking foot movement, areas of tenderness, and walking patterns. Imaging may be used when another injury needs to be ruled out. If cuboid syndrome is diagnosed, podiatric treatment can focus on restoring comfortable joint function and addressing factors that place added stress on the foot. Treatment is based on the patient’s symptoms and the cause of the problem. If persistent outer foot pain or difficulty walking is affecting your mobility, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an evaluation and appropriate treatment options.

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 Carolina Foot & Ankle Specialists. 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 Mount Pleasant and Charleston, SC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Foot problems in older adults are common due to natural aging changes, reduced circulation, and long-term wear on joints and soft tissues. These conditions can affect mobility, balance, and overall independence. Arthritis is one of the most frequent concerns, and is defined as inflammation within the joints that leads to pain and stiffness. Bunions are structural deformities where the big toe shifts toward the second toe, creating a bony bump at the base. Hammertoes occur when the smaller toes bend abnormally at the joints. Diabetes-related foot complications involve nerve damage and poor circulation that increase the risk of wounds and infection.

Symptoms vary depending on the condition, but often include pain, swelling, stiffness, and visible changes in foot shape. Individuals with arthritis may notice joint tenderness and limited motion. Bunions can cause redness and irritation, especially when wearing tight shoes. Hammertoes may lead to corns and pressure points. Diabetes-related conditions can present with numbness, tingling, or slow-healing wounds. These symptoms can worsen without proper care and lead to reduced mobility.

Risk factors for these foot problems include advancing age, decreased bone density, and long-term joint stress. Wearing poor footwear, lack of physical activity, and chronic medical conditions such as diabetes can also contribute. Circulatory issues and nerve damage can further increase complications, especially in individuals with diabetes. Over time, these factors place added strain on the feet and increase the likelihood of deformity and injury.

Managing foot health in older adults involves early detection and proper support. Wearing well-fitted shoes with adequate cushioning can reduce pressure and improve comfort. Regular foot checks are important for identifying changes before they become severe. Treatment may include orthotics, activity modification, and medical care. If you have foot problems related to age, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for effective relief, treatment, and management solutions.

Proper foot care is something many older adults forget to consider. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact one of our podiatrists from Carolina Foot & Ankle Specialists. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

The Elderly and Their Feet

As we age we start to notice many changes in our body, but the elder population may not notice them right away. Medical conditions may prevent the elderly to take notice of their foot health right away. Poor vision is a lead contributor to not taking action for the elderly.

Common Conditions 

• Neuropathy – can reduce feeling in the feet and can hide many life-threatening medical conditions.
• Reduced flexibility – prevents the ability of proper toenail trimming, and foot cleaning. If left untreated, it may lead to further medical issues.
• Foot sores – amongst the older population can be serious before they are discovered. Some of the problematic conditions they may face are:
• Gouging toenails affecting nearby toe
• Shoes that don’t fit properly
• Pressure sores
• Loss of circulation in legs & feet
• Edema & swelling of feet and ankles

Susceptible Infections

Diabetes and poor circulation can cause general loss of sensitivity over the years, turning a simple cut into a serious issue.

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

A foot ulcer is an open sore or wound that typically occurs on the bottom of the foot. It is common in individuals with diabetes or poor circulation, as high blood sugar and reduced blood flow can impair healing. Foot ulcers can develop due to pressure, friction, or injury, and without proper care, they can become infected or worsen over time. Effective wound care is an important way to prevent further complications. This involves cleaning the ulcer regularly, applying appropriate dressings, and ensuring the foot is protected from further injury. It is also important to manage underlying conditions, such as diabetes, by keeping blood sugar levels under control. In some cases, a podiatrist may recommend antibiotics if an infection is present. Wearing proper footwear and offloading pressure from the affected area are also essential in promoting healing and preventing recurrence. If you have developed a foot ulcer, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can offer appropriate treatment solutions.

Wound care is an important part in dealing with diabetes. If you have diabetes and a foot wound or would like more information about wound care for diabetics, consult with one of our podiatrists from Carolina Foot & Ankle Specialists. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

What Is Wound Care?

Wound care is the practice of taking proper care of a wound. This can range from the smallest to the largest of wounds. While everyone can benefit from proper wound care, it is much more important for diabetics. Diabetics often suffer from poor blood circulation which causes wounds to heal much slower than they would in a non-diabetic. 

What Is the Importance of Wound Care?

While it may not seem apparent with small ulcers on the foot, for diabetics, any size ulcer can become infected. Diabetics often also suffer from neuropathy, or nerve loss. This means they might not even feel when they have an ulcer on their foot. If the wound becomes severely infected, amputation may be necessary. Therefore, it is of the upmost importance to properly care for any and all foot wounds.

How to Care for Wounds

The best way to care for foot wounds is to prevent them. For diabetics, this means daily inspections of the feet for any signs of abnormalities or ulcers. It is also recommended to see a podiatrist several times a year for a foot inspection. If you do have an ulcer, run the wound under water to clear dirt from the wound; then apply antibiotic ointment to the wound and cover with a bandage. Bandages should be changed daily and keeping pressure off the wound is smart. It is advised to see a podiatrist, who can keep an eye on it.

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Mount Pleasant and Charleston, SC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Toe pain is a frequent concern that can result from injury, pressure, or underlying toenail problems. The toenail is a complex structure made up of four key parts, including the nail plate, nail matrix, nail bed, and nail folds. Each of these components plays a role in nail growth and protection. Disorders can affect any of these areas, leading to discomfort and visible changes. Understanding the definition of toe pain and how toenail structures function can help identify early signs of problems and guide proper care.

Symptoms of toenail disorders often include pain, discoloration, thickening, or changes in nail shape. Deformities refer to visible changes in the nail’s structure, such as curving or lifting from the nail bed. Dystrophies involve changes in texture, including brittleness or rough surfaces. Individuals may also experience swelling or redness around the nail folds, especially if infection is present. These symptoms can affect walking comfort and may worsen without timely attention.

Risk factors for toe pain and toenail problems include wearing tight footwear, repeated trauma, and poor foot hygiene. Conditions such as fungal infections or ingrown toenails can also contribute to discomfort. Damage to the nail matrix can alter nail growth, while issues with the nail bed may affect attachment and stability. Additional causes include excessive moisture, improper nail trimming, and underlying health conditions. These factors can disrupt normal nail function and increase the likelihood of chronic problems.

Maintaining healthy toenails involves proper hygiene, careful trimming, and wearing well-fitted shoes that reduce pressure on the toes. Regular inspection of the nails can help detect early changes and prevent complications. Addressing symptoms promptly can support long-term foot health and comfort. If you have toenail problems or persistent toe pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for effective relief and treatment solutions.

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Carolina Foot & Ankle Specialists. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Causes Toe Pain?

Most severe toe pain is caused due to a sports injury, trauma from dropping something heavy on the toe, or bumping into something rigid. Other problems can develop over time for various reasons.

Toe pain can be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Trauma
• Sports injury
• Wearing shoes that are too tight
• Arthritis
• Gout
• Corns and calluses
• Hammertoe
• Bunions
• Blisters
• Ingrown toenails
• Sprains
• Fractures (broken bones)
• Dislocations

When to See a Podiatrist

• Severe pain
• Persistent pain that lasts more than a week
• Signs of infection
• Continued swelling
• Pain that prevents walking

Diagnosis

In many cases the cause of toe pain is obvious, but in others, a podiatrist may want to use more advanced methods to determine the problem. These can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatments for toe pain and injuries vary and may include shoe inserts, padding, taping, medicines, injections, and in some cases, surgery. If you believe that you have broken a toe, please see a podiatrist as soon as possible.

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Mount Pleasant and Charleston, SC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.