Tarsal Coalition

Tarsal Coalition

What is Tarsal Coalition?
Tarsal coalition is a condition in which the tarsal bones of the foot are abnormally connected or fused together. This is usually a congenital structural anomaly and may start showing symptoms during childhood or young adulthood.

Symptoms

  • Pain: Pain in the foot, especially during walking and running.

  • Stiffness and Limited Movement: Restricted motion and stiffness in the ankle.

  • Changes in Walking: Abnormal gait patterns and uneven weight distribution.

  • Swelling and Tenderness: Swelling and tenderness around the affected joint.

Causes
Tarsal coalition is generally caused by genetic factors and arises during the development of the foot bones. It manifests as the fusion or abnormal connection of two or more tarsal bones.

Treatment Options
Treatment varies depending on the severity of the coalition and the patient’s overall health:

  • Conservative Treatment: Rest, ice application, and anti-inflammatory medications to relieve pain and inflammation.

  • Orthopedic Shoes and Insoles: To provide extra support to the ankle and arch.

  • Physical Therapy: Strengthening foot and leg muscles to improve joint mobility.

Surgical Treatment
If conservative treatments are insufficient or the coalition causes severe movement restrictions, surgical intervention may be considered. Surgical options include:

  • Coalition Resection: Removal of the abnormal connection between the affected bones.

  • Joint Fusion: In severe cases, joint fusion may be performed to reduce pain and increase stability.

Accurate diagnosis and effective treatment methods are crucial in managing tarsal coalition. Visit our clinic to restore healthy steps and start your treatment process with our expert team.