Your FOOT-What is the cuboid bone?

The cuboid bone is a bone on the outside of the foot. There is a misconception that this bone is next to the "pinky toe." However, the little toe is adjacent to the fifth metatarsal bone (a longer bone), which joins the cuboid. The cuboid can be injured by trauma (car accidents, falls), twisting or spraining of the ankle, repetitive movements (marching, operating a machine), or in other ways. There will be pain, swelling, and often inability to stand or walk due to an injury or break of the cuboid bone. Conventional x-rays and an exam by a podiatrist are needed to check the area. Occasionally, CT or MRI exams may be needed to determine the extent of the injury. After a diagnosis is identified, the injury can be treated with surgery or immobilization (casting, boots, etc.). The treatment plan will be determined by the extent of the injury (bone is out of place or involving a joint), age, activity level, bone density, and other factors. Healing of a foot fracture often takes 6-8 weeks and is followed by a course of physical therapy. Dr. Bender, 708-763-0580

Carolina Panthers' player, Lotulelei, out of playoffs with Foot Fracture

As NFL playoff excitement builds, the Carolina Panthers defense will be weaker without Star Lotulelei, who sustained a foot fracture in practice on Tuesday. Lotulelei has undergone foot surgery to repair the break and will be out for the remainder of the playoffs. Reports state that he rolled his foot on another player's foot and developed the fracture. A common way that people develop sprains and breaks in the foot and ankle is when they step on an irregular surface and twist the foot inward. This is the most common way of developing a sprained ankle. Additionally, this motion can also cause excessive strain on the normal structures of the foot, causing breaks in the bones of the foot. If you twist your foot and the pain does not improve, you should see a foot specialist for an exam and x-rays. Ice, rest, strapping the foot, and elevation should also be started as soon as possible. Enjoy the playoffs! Dr. Bender, 708-763-0580