Cuboid syndrome is a disorder that is characterized by pain and dysfunction in the area of the cuboid bone in the foot. The exact cause of cuboid syndrome is not always clear, but it is generally believed to result from the displacement or subluxation of the cuboid bone within the foot. There certainly is debate if that actually happens for not.
Several factors may contribute to the development of cuboid syndrome:
Trauma:
Direct injury or trauma to the foot, such as a sprained ankle or excessive twisting of the foot, can lead to the displacement of the cuboid bone. Cuboid syndrome is a known long term complication of an ankle sprain
Overuse or repetitive stress:
Activities that involve repetitive or excessive stress on the foot, such as running, jumping, or dancing, can strain the ligaments and muscles around the cuboid bone. This can result in its misalignment and symptoms from the overuse.
Foot Biomechanics:
Certain foot conditions or abnormalities, such as overpronation or flat feet, can affect the alignment and function of the cuboid bone. These structural issues can disrupt the normal mechanics of the foot and contribute to the symptoms.
The symptoms of cuboid syndrome typically include pain and tenderness along the outer edge of the foot, difficulty walking or bearing weight on the affected foot, and limited range of motion in the foot and ankle.