Tarsal Coalition

Overview

 

Tarsal⁣ coalition is a rare condition that affects the feet. It occurs ​when two bones at the back of ‍your foot—known as the tarsal bones—develop an abnormal connection, causing discomfort, stiffness, and sometimes altered foot shape. The condition usually manifests in children or teenagers as ⁢their feet grow and develop but can sometimes ⁢go unnoticed until adulthood.

Types

 

There are two main types of tarsal ⁢coalition:

    • Talocalcaneal Coalition: This occurs ⁢when the talus and calcaneus bones fuse together. It’s the most common type of tarsal coalition.

 

    • Calcaneonavicular Coalition: This ​type ⁣involves the calcaneus and navicular bones.

 

Causes

 

The primary cause of tarsal coalition is genetics—it’s often an inherited condition. ⁤That said, a traumatic foot injury or some types of infections or arthritis can also increase the risk of developing a tarsal coalition.

Symptoms

 

Some people with tarsal coalition may experience no symptoms, ​especially in their younger years. However, for others,⁢ symptoms can include:

    • Pain ⁤or stiffness in the foot or ankle, especially during physical activity

 

    • Flatfoot

 

    • Muscle spasms in the leg

 

    • Tiring easily during physical activity

 

    • Unusual walking pattern

 

Diagnosis

 

Initial diagnosis of a tarsal coalition often involves a physical examination ⁢and a review of the ⁤patient’s medical history. Imaging tests such as X-rays,​ CT ​scans, or MRIs can confirm the diagnosis and identify the specific bones involved.

Treatment Options

 

Treatment for tarsal coalition depends on the severity of the condition and the associated symptoms. Options may include:

    • Conservative Treatment: Aims to‌ relieve symptoms and may include physical therapy, ⁢custom-made orthotic devices, or steroid injections.

 

    • Surgical Treatment: May be recommended for severe cases or those not responding to conservative treatment. Types of surgery⁤ include⁣ resection⁣ or fusion.

 

Living With‌ Tarsal⁣ Coalition

 

Living with tarsal coalition can be challenging, but ⁤with the right approach, symptom management can be effective. Here are some tips:

    • Follow your ​medical team’s advice on exercise and⁤ activity levels.

 

    • Regularly ​wear⁢ prescribed orthotic devices.

 

    • Take prescribed pain relief as ⁤directed.

 

    • Keep a symptom​ diary to track ‌changes and help inform ⁢your treatment.

 

When to Seek‍ Help

 

If you ⁢experience persistent or severe foot and ankle pain, difficulty with mobility, or recurring muscle spasms in the foot‍ or leg, you should seek medical advice. In particular, if you’ve been diagnosed with tarsal coalition and your symptoms worsen or don’t improve with treatment, it’s crucial to seek medical help to review‍ your management plan.