Cuboid Syndrome is a foot condition that occurs when the cuboid bone—one of the small bones on the outer side of the midfoot—becomes partially dislocated or its alignment is disrupted. This bone plays a key role in supporting the foot’s arch and enabling smooth movement during walking or running. When the cuboid bone is out of place or the ligaments surrounding it are strained, it can cause pain, swelling, and stiffness along the outside of the foot. The condition is sometimes called “subluxation of the cuboid” and is relatively common in athletes, especially runners, dancers, and those who frequently engage in sports with sudden side-to-side movements.

The most common cause of Cuboid Syndrome is overuse or repetitive strain, though it can also result from an ankle sprain or sudden twisting injury. In many cases, the peroneus longus tendon—which runs along the outer side of the lower leg and attaches to the foot—can exert excessive force on the cuboid bone, pulling it out of alignment. Risk factors include poorly fitting footwear, training on uneven surfaces, inadequate warm-up, and having flat feet or very high arches. Because the pain may be mistaken for other injuries, such as a stress fracture or peroneal tendonitis, diagnosis can sometimes be tricky without proper examination.

Symptoms of Cuboid Syndrome typically include sharp or aching pain on the lateral (outer) side of the foot, tenderness when pressing on the cuboid bone, difficulty bearing weight, and pain that worsens with push-off during walking or running. In some cases, there may be visible swelling or bruising. The discomfort often makes the foot feel unstable, and athletes might find themselves limping or avoiding activities that require sudden changes in direction. While rest can sometimes reduce symptoms, the pain often persists until the bone’s alignment is corrected.

Treatment usually starts with a manual realignment technique known as the “cuboid whip” or “cuboid squeeze,” performed by a trained healthcare professional such as a sports physiotherapist or podiatrist. This may be followed by supportive taping, orthotic inserts to stabilize the foot, and targeted stretching or strengthening exercises for the surrounding muscles and tendons. Rest, ice, and anti-inflammatory measures can help manage pain in the short term. For prevention, it’s important to wear properly fitting shoes, gradually increase activity intensity, and maintain flexibility and strength in the foot and ankle. With prompt treatment, most people recover quickly, but ignoring the condition can lead to chronic pain or recurrent injuries.