Unraveling the Top Culprits Behind Persistent Foot Pain

19. Cuboid Syndrome – The Midfoot Misalignment

Cuboid Syndrome is a condition where the cuboid bone, a small bone on the outer side of the midfoot, subtly shifts out of alignment or experiences dysfunction. Often occurring after an ankle sprain or repetitive stress from activities like ballet or running, it causes pain on the outside of the foot, sometimes radiating towards the toes. It may feel like a dull ache or sharp pain during push-off. Diagnosis often requires a skilled manual examination, and treatment typically involves specific manual manipulation to realign the bone, followed by taping and exercises.

20. Sinus Tarsi Syndrome – The Ankle Sprain Aftermath

Sinus Tarsi Syndrome causes persistent pain on the outer front part of the ankle, often a nagging reminder of a previous ankle sprain that didn't fully heal. It results from inflammation or instability within the "sinus tarsi," a small canal between the heel and ankle bones. Symptoms include pain worsened by standing, walking on uneven surfaces, or prolonged activity, sometimes accompanied by a feeling of instability. Treatment involves physical therapy to strengthen the ankle, orthotics, injections, or, in some cases, arthroscopic surgery to alleviate the chronic pain.