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Cuboid syndrome is a condition involving the cuboid bone on the outer side of the foot. This small, cube-shaped bone connects with several nearby bones and helps form the lateral part of the midfoot. The cuboid also provides stability while supporting normal foot movement during walking. When the cuboid becomes slightly displaced or irritated, surrounding tissues can become painful. Symptoms may include outer-foot pain, tenderness, or discomfort when putting weight on the foot. Some people notice pain that becomes worse when walking, running, or pushing off the ground.

The cuboid is located between the heel bone and the bases of the fourth and fifth metatarsals. It also connects with the navicular and lateral cuneiform bones, creating an important part of the foot’s structure. Because the cuboid helps support the outer arch and transfer forces across the foot, irritation can affect balance and movement. Cuboid syndrome may develop after an ankle sprain or another foot injury, and it can also occur when repetitive stress places excessive pressure on the midfoot.

Risk factors include activities that involve repeated running or jumping, especially when footwear does not provide adequate support. Sudden increases in athletic activity can contribute to irritation as well. Imaging tests may be recommended when a fracture or another condition needs to be ruled out. Treatment depends on the underlying cause and severity of symptoms.

A podiatrist may begin treatment by reducing activities that aggravate the foot and recommending supportive footwear. Padding or taping may help stabilize the cuboid while irritated tissues recover. In some cases, a podiatrist may use a gentle manual technique to restore the cuboid to a better position. More significant injuries may require immobilization while the foot heals. Follow-up care helps determine whether symptoms are improving and whether additional support is needed. If you have symptoms of cuboid syndrome, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

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 Dr. Eugenio Rivera from Calo 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 office located in Bellaire, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Plantar fasciitis develops when the plantar fascia becomes irritated and swollen. This band of tissue is a ligament that runs from the heel bone toward the toes. It supports the arch and helps absorb force when walking. Repeated strain can cause tiny tears that lead to pain near the bottom of the heel. The discomfort is sharpest with the first steps after getting out of bed. It can also return after sitting for a long period of time. Stiffness and swelling can occur, and the pain may increase after exercise.

Several factors can place too much stress on the plantar fascia. Running, jumping, and standing for long periods of time on a hard surface can increase the strain. A sudden increase in activity can also trigger symptoms of plantar fasciitis. Other risk factors include tight calf muscles, excess body weight, and being between ages 40 and 60. Flat feet or high arches can change how pressure moves through the foot. Although heel spurs may appear on an X-ray, these bony growths are not always the source of pain. An exam from a podiatrist helps distinguish plantar fasciitis from a stress fracture, nerve problem, or other cause of heel discomfort.

A podiatrist can examine the tender area and check foot and ankle movement. The visit includes a review of activity levels, shoes, and when symptoms occur. X-rays can help rule out a fracture or bone problem. A podiatrist can recommend properly fitted shoes or prescribe custom orthotics to improve support and reduce pressure. Treatment also includes taping or wearing a night splint that gently holds the foot in a better position while sleeping. Other office-based treatments can be discussed for persistent pain. Surgery is rarely required. It is considered only when continued care has not provided expected relief. If you have heel pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat plantar fasciitis.

Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact Dr. Eugenio Rivera  from Calo Foot & Ankle Specialists. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, known as the plantar fascia, and causes mild to severe heel pain.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

• Excessive running
• Non-supportive shoes
• Overpronation
• Repeated stretching and tearing of the plantar fascia

How Can It Be Treated?

• Conservative measures – anti-inflammatories, ice packs, stretching exercises, physical therapy, orthotic devices
• Shockwave therapy – sound waves are sent to the affected area to facilitate healing and are usually used for chronic cases of plantar fasciitis
• Surgery – usually only used as a last resort when all else fails. The plantar fascia can be surgically detached from the heel

While very treatable, plantar fasciitis is definitely not something that should be ignored. Especially in severe cases, speaking to your doctor right away is highly recommended to avoid complications and severe heel pain. Your podiatrist can work with you to provide the appropriate treatment options tailored to your condition.

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

Heel spurs are bony growths that develop on the heel bone. They can form where the plantar fascia, a strong band of tissue along the bottom of the foot, attaches to the heel. Repeated strain on this tissue and the foot muscles can contribute to spur formation. Heel spurs are also linked with plantar fasciitis, which causes irritation in the plantar fascia. However, a heel spur does not always cause pain. Some people have a spur that is discovered on an X-ray even though they have no heel symptoms.

When heel spurs do cause symptoms, patients can feel pain and tenderness on the bottom of the heel. Discomfort can become more noticeable when standing, walking, or running. Some people describe the pain as feeling like pins pressing into the bottom of the foot. Because several foot problems can cause heel pain, identifying the source is important. A podiatrist can examine the heel, ask about activities that trigger discomfort, and evaluate foot structure. Imaging can also show whether a bony growth is present and help confirm the diagnosis.

A podiatrist can develop a treatment plan based on the cause and severity of heel pain. Treatment can focus on reducing pressure around the heel and improving the way the foot functions. Options can include custom orthotics, supportive shoe recommendations, and targeted stretching. A podiatrist can also evaluate whether plantar fasciitis or another foot problem is contributing to the symptoms. When pain continues despite conservative treatment, other treatment choices can be discussed. If you have symptoms of heel spurs, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for diagnosis and treatment.

Heel spurs can be incredibly painful and sometimes may make you unable to participate in physical activities. To get medical care for your heel spurs, contact Dr. Eugenio Rivera from Calo Foot & Ankle Specialists. Our doctors will do everything possible to treat your condition.

Heels Spurs

Heel spurs are formed by calcium deposits on the back of the foot where the heel is. This can also be caused by small fragments of bone breaking off one section of the foot, attaching onto the back of the foot. Heel spurs can also be bone growth on the back of the foot and may grow in the direction of the arch of the foot.

Older individuals usually suffer from heel spurs and pain sometimes intensifies with age. One of the main condition's spurs are related to is plantar fasciitis.

Pain

The pain associated with spurs is often because of weight placed on the feet. When someone is walking, their entire weight is concentrated on the feet. Bone spurs then have the tendency to affect other bones and tissues around the foot. As the pain continues, the feet will become tender and sensitive over time.

Treatments

There are many ways to treat heel spurs. If one is suffering from heel spurs in conjunction with pain, there are several methods for healing. Medication, surgery, and herbal care are some options.

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

Flat feet develop when the arches along the inside of the feet are low or absent while standing. These arches help distribute body weight, maintain balance, and absorb shock with each step. Some people have flexible flat feet, where an arch appears when sitting or standing on tiptoes. Others have rigid flat feet, where the arch remains absent in every position. Flat feet do not always cause problems, but symptoms can develop when changes in foot structure place added stress on the feet and ankles.

Flat feet can be present from childhood or develop later in life. In adults, fallen arches can be related to aging, injury, or wear and tear. Other risk factors include diabetes, obesity, and rheumatoid arthritis. Symptoms can include tired or aching feet after standing for long periods of time. Patients can also experience swelling along the inside of the foot or ankle. Pain can extend into the ankles, legs, or back. Changes in toe position or flexibility can also occur. A tight Achilles tendon can contribute to flat feet by affecting normal foot movement.

A podiatrist can examine the arches and determine whether flat feet are flexible or rigid. The evaluation can also assess walking patterns, foot alignment, and areas of pain. Treatment depends on the severity of symptoms and the underlying cause. A podiatrist can recommend custom orthotics to support the arches and improve how pressure is distributed across the feet. Treatment can also include targeted stretches or shoes with built-in arch support. Severe cases linked to structural problems can sometimes require surgery. Proper evaluation is especially important when fallen arches develop suddenly or begin interfering with comfortable movement. If you have pain from having flat feet, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for effective relief, treatment, and management tips.

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact Dr. Eugenio Rivera from Calo Foot & Ankle Specialists. Our doctors 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 Bellaire, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.