There is a problem called a tarsal coalition where two of the bones in the tarsal area (hindfoot) in the feet can be abnormally merged together. This tarsal area of the feet involves seven bones known as the tarsal bones, which are situated between your lower leg bones (tibia and fibula) and the bones of the front foot (metatarsals). A tarsal coalition most often involves the bones called the talus and calcaneus and infrequently the navicular bone. The union in between these bones could be a fibrous soft tissue in which there can be a bridge of fibrous tissue which link up the 2 bones. The fusion could also be osseous in which there is a bony association combining the two bones. This fusion amongst the bones reduces the ordinary movement and suppleness of the joints which are impacted resulting in a range of different symptoms depending on the bones that are affected. A tarsal coalition is usually not detected early in youngsters since the foot is usually still very flexible, but around the teenage years the signs and symptoms start to appear. The actual reasons for these types of tarsal coalitions are not fully understood, however it's believed to be a genetic disorder, meaning that it's been found from birth. In some instances, in adults, the tarsal coalition could also be a consequence of trauma or osteoarthritis.
Typically, the frequent symptoms related to a tarsal coalition are relatively hazy and will include pain in the region which can be often at first difficult to track down at one joint involving the affected bones. This discomfort will typically worsen with a lot more physical activity and get better with the help of rest. You will have a rigidity and restricted range of flexibility around the joint or joints that happen to be fused. The coalition could cause fatigue or muscle cramping pains from the impacted leg or foot. There might be an abnormal gait or walking sequence like a limp. You may also have an position concern for example a flatter or higher arch foot problems could develop. The final diagnosing of tarsal coalition is usually made by having a combination of clinical symptoms and history of the symptoms and after that imaging studies for example X-rays or a CT scan. This imaging will show the abnormal bony union or fibrous connection between the actual tarsal bones.
The therapy for tarsal coalition depends on the seriousness of symptoms and the impact they have on everyday living. Non-surgical methods tend to be tried first and will include the avoiding activities that worsen symptoms or hurt. Foot orthotic inserts will offer support and reduce excessive mobility within the affected joints. Stretching out and strengthening physical exercises will help improve joint flexibility with the other joints round the affected areas. In the event the pain is especially bothersome, then nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medicines (NSAIDs) may be used to decrease pain and swelling. In the event these types of measures tend not to give adequate relief and it's also severe next surgical treatment might be contemplated. The purpose of the surgery is to separate the merged bones by taking out the connection in between the joint to try to bring back usual joint motion.
