Protruding bone on the outside of the foot: causes, symptoms, and treatments

When the protruding bone on the outside of the foot, also called the cuboid, one of the seven small bones in the foot, is injured or overused, it can become inflamed and cause annoying pain throughout the foot, potentially compromising normal daily activities. This is known as cuboid syndrome.

The cuboid is a bone located on the lateral side of the foot, near the external longitudinal arch. When it protrudes excessively, this bony protrusion affects the quality of life, limiting physical activity and the choice of footwear for those who suffer from this condition.

The most common symptom associated with a protruding bone on the outside of the foot is pain. This dull, constant pain is felt in the area of the bony protrusion and can worsen when walking or standing for a prolonged period.

The affected area of the foot is swollen and the skin red. Furthermore, due to the deformity of the foot, those who suffer from this condition have difficulty finding comfortable shoes to wear.

What causes cuboid syndrome?

This condition, also called "cuboid foot," can be caused by several factors. It can develop insidiously and progressively and can be difficult to identify clinically or through imaging.

First of all, cuboid syndrome seems to occur particularly in the active population and in athletes, since when there is excessive internal support of the foot, the cuboid bone is excessively stressed and tends to overload and lock, rotating with the lateral edge upwards and the medial edge downwards.

Other causes that can cause the condition include various types of trauma, such as direct impacts during sports or car accidents. Fractures or dislocations of the cuboid bone can cause deformity and a bony prominence. Finally, in some cases, a foot with a protruding bone may be caused by a congenital deformity, which is present from birth.

There are also some factors that could increase the likelihood of cuboid syndrome, including excessive body weight, wearing unsuitable shoes or insoles, and training on rough terrain.

Possible treatments for cuboid syndrome

Conservative treatment for protruding cuboid bone may vary depending on the severity of symptoms and the underlying cause. Initially, manipulation may be a therapeutic solution for cuboid syndrome. Patients who experience no relief after manipulation should be evaluated for a differential diagnosis. During an acute phase of the condition, it is advisable to immobilize the ankle and foot, using crutches for walking. 

If conservative treatment fails to achieve satisfactory results, surgery is possible. The goal of the procedure is to remove excess bone and realign the foot joints.

Cuboid Syndrome: How to Treat It

The presence of a protruding bone on the outside of the foot is a condition that can cause significant discomfort and limit physical activity. If you believe you suffer from cuboid syndrome, it is important to consult a specialist for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. With conservative therapies and, if necessary, surgery, it is possible to achieve significant improvement in symptoms and resume an active, pain-free lifestyle. The choice of conservative or surgical treatment, however, must be evaluated on a case-by-case basis, taking into account the chronicity, severity, associated fractures, and physical characteristics.

SmartHallux: for the care of your feet

SmartHallux 's goal is to provide a solution to the problem of protruding lateral foot bone and all the most common foot and ankle pathologies. To achieve this goal, we adopt the best surgical techniques, orthopedic devices, instruments, and materials available on the market, and we do so at an affordable cost.

With SmartHallux, you'll have access to the best possible treatments, in top-notch facilities and without having to wait for public health delays. Book your specialist appointment now at one of our locations throughout the country.