Cuboid syndrome is a foot condition characterized by pain on the lateral side of the foot, caused by the displacement or subluxation of the cuboid bone. This bone is one of the seven tarsal bones in the foot and plays a significant role in stability and movement. Cuboid syndrome typically occurs due to repetitive strain, overuse, or an acute injury such as an ankle sprain. Though not as common as other foot injuries, cuboid syndrome is often seen in athletes, particularly dancers and runners, due to the high impact and stress placed on their feet. The pain is usually sharp and localized around the cuboid bone, exacerbated by weight-bearing activities and certain movements like pushing off the ground. Diagnosis involves a physical examination, focusing on the foot's range of motion and palpation to identify tenderness over the cuboid bone. Imaging tests are rarely necessary but may be used to rule out other conditions. Risk factors include wearing improper footwear, overtraining, having flat feet, or a pronated foot type. Treatment typically involves rest and manual manipulation of the cuboid bone, along with orthotic devices for support. If you have pain in this area of your foot, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment plan.

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 the practitioners from Foot Care Institute. Our practitioners 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 office located in Windsor, ON . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Sever's disease affects children and adolescents, particularly those engaged in physical activities like sports. It is not a disease but rather a disorder caused by inflammation of the growth plate in the heel bone, known as the calcaneal apophysis. This inflammation results from repetitive stress or tension on the heel bone, often during periods of rapid growth and development. Sever's disease typically affects children between the ages of eight and 14, when the growth plate is still open and vulnerable to injury. Activities that involve running, jumping, or high-impact movements can lead to heel pain, swelling, and tenderness, especially during or after physical activity. Sever's disease is not usually serious and typically resolves with rest and conservative treatments like stretching and heel cushions. However, it can temporarily limit a child's participation in sports and other activities, emphasizing the importance of proper management and injury prevention strategies. If your active child is complaining of heel pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can properly diagnose and treat Sever’s disease.

Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see the practitioners from Foot Care Institute. Our practitioners can treat your child’s foot and ankle needs.

Sever’s Disease

Sever’s disease is also known as calcaneal apophysitis, which is a medical condition that causes heel pain I none or both feet. The disease is known to affect children between the ages of 8 and 14.

Sever’s disease occurs when part of the child’s heel known as the growth plate (calcaneal epiphysis) is attached to the Achilles tendon. This area can suffer injury when the muscles and tendons of the growing foot do not keep pace with bone growth. Therefore, the constant pain which one experiences at the back of the heel will make the child unable to put any weight on the heel. The child is then forced to walk on their toes.

Symptoms

Acute pain – Pain associated with Sever’s disease is usually felt in the heel when the child engages in physical activity such as walking, jumping and or running.

Highly active – Children who are very active are among the most susceptible in experiencing Sever’s disease, because of the stress and tension placed on their feet.

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

Flat feet, a condition where the arches of the feet touch the ground when you stand, can lead to overpronation. Overpronation occurs when the ankles roll excessively inward with each step during walking or running. This can cause additional strain on the ankles, knees, and hips. Overpronation can also increase the risk of injuries and discomfort due to improper alignment and distribution of body weight. People with flat feet may experience fatigue in their feet and legs, and suffer from pain in the heel or arch area. To help manage symptoms of flat feet and any issues resulting from overpronation, a podiatrist, or foot doctor, may recommend orthotic devices. These are insoles that fit into shoes to provide support for the arches, correct the pronation, and enhance overall foot function. Proper footwear that offers stability and support is also important to effectively manage overpronation. Regular check-ups with a podiatrist can ensure that individuals with flat feet receive the necessary support and guidance to prevent any issues. If you have flat feet, or suspect overpronation when walking, it is suggested you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a full exam and possible gait analysis. 

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact the practitioners from Foot Care Institute. Our practitioners will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Are Flat Feet?

Flatfoot is a condition in which the arch of the foot is depressed and the sole of the foot is almost completely in contact with the ground. About 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arches never formed during growth.

Conditions & Problems:

Having flat feet makes it difficult to run or walk because of the stress placed on the ankles.

Alignment – The general alignment of your legs can be disrupted, because the ankles move inward which can cause major discomfort.

Knees – If you have complications with your knees, flat feet can be a contributor to arthritis in that area.  

Symptoms

• Pain around the heel or arch area
• Trouble standing on the tip toe
• Swelling around the inside of the ankle
• Flat look to one or both feet
• Having your shoes feel uneven when worn

Treatment

If you are experiencing pain and stress on the foot you may weaken the posterior tibial tendon, which runs around the inside of the ankle. 

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

Maintaining the strength and flexibility of your feet, toes, and ankles can help with overall mobility and comfort, especially if you are experiencing pain or dealing with conditions like arthritis. Start with simple exercises for the feet to help alleviate discomfort and improve function. For example, the Achilles tendon and plantar fascia stretch involves looping a towel around the ball of your foot, pulling your toes toward your body, and holding for 30 seconds. This should be repeated three times on each foot. Rolling your foot over a round object, like a can or ball, and performing seated stretches can also provide relief. Wall pushes, ankle rotations, and ankle range of motion exercises enhance flexibility. Toe spreads, towel pickups, and standing heel raises can build strength. Balancing exercises, such as standing on one leg while lightly touching a wall, can further improve stability. Begin these exercises gradually, and increasing intensity as you build strength and confidence. Always ensure you have sufficient space to exercise safely and it is important to stay hydrated. If you have any concerns or need personalized advice about foot, toe, or ankle pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist before it gets worse.

Exercising your feet regularly with the proper foot wear is a great way to prevent injuries and build strength. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact the practitioners from Foot Care Institute. Our practitioners can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Exercise for Your Feet

Exercise for your feet can help you gain strength, mobility and flexibility in your feet. They say that strengthening your feet can be just as rewarding as strengthening another part of the body. Your feet are very important, and we often forget about them in our daily tasks. But it is because of our feet that are we able to get going and do what we need to. For those of us fortunate enough to not have any foot problems, it is an important gesture to take care of them to ensure good health in the long run.

Some foot health exercises can include ankle pumps, tip-toeing, toe rises, lifting off the floor doing reps and sets, and flexing the toes. It is best to speak with Our practitioners to determine an appropriate regimen for your needs. Everyone’s needs and bodies are different, and the activities required to maintain strength in the feet vary from individual to individual. 

Once you get into a routine of doing regular exercise, you may notice a difference in your feet and how strong they may become.

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

Complex regional pain syndrome, or CRPS, also known as reflex sympathetic dystrophy, is a debilitating condition affecting the feet and other body parts. It often emerges following an injury, surgery, or trauma, although its precise origins remain uncertain. CRPS encompasses a range of symptoms, notably persistent and severe pain disproportionate to the initial injury. Sensory disturbances like burning sensations, tingling, or hypersensitivity are common, in addition to vasomotor symptoms such as changes in skin temperature and color, swelling, and alterations in sweating patterns. Additionally, CRPS can lead to motor and trophic symptoms, including muscle weakness, coordination difficulties, and changes in hair and nail growth. Treatment for CRPS typically involves a multidisciplinary approach, incorporating medication and nerve blocks. Podiatrists help in managing foot-related CRPS symptoms, offering specialized care like custom orthotics and tailored pain management techniques to improve mobility and enhance the overall quality of life for individuals grappling with this challenging condition. If you have symptoms of CRPS, it is suggested that you seek help from this type of medical professional.

Some foot conditions may require additional professional care. If you have any concerns, contact the practitioners of Foot Care Institute. Our practitioners can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Rare Foot Conditions

The majority of foot conditions are common and can be treated by a podiatrist.  Standard diagnostic procedures are generally used to identify specific conditions and treatment can be rendered. A podiatrist also treats rare foot conditions which can be difficult to diagnose and may need extra attention and care. 

There are many rare foot conditions that can affect children. Some of these can include:

• Freiberg’s disease
• Kohler’s disease
• Maffucci syndrome

Freiberg’s disease - This can be seen as a deterioration and flattening of a metatarsal bone that exists in the ball of the foot. It typically affects pre-teen and teenage girls, but can affect anyone at any age. Symptoms that can accompany this can be swelling, stiffness, and the patient may limp. 

Kohler’s disease - This often targets the bone in the arch of the foot and affects younger boys. It can lead to an interruption of the blood supply which ultimately can lead to bone deterioration. The patient may limp or experience tenderness, swelling, and redness.

Maffucci syndrome - This affects the long bones in a child’s foot leading to the development of abnormal bone lesions. They are benign growths and typically develop in early childhood and the bones may be susceptible to breaking. 

A podiatrist can properly diagnose and treat all types of rare foot conditions. If your child is affected by any of these symptoms or conditions, please don’t hesitate to call our office so the correct treatment method can begin.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Windsor, ON . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.