There is a condition known as a tarsal coalition in which a couple of the bones within the tarsal area (hindfoot) in the feet can be abnormally merged together with each other. That tarsal region of the feet involves 7 bones called the tarsal bones, that are situated between the lower leg bones (tibia and fibula) and also the bones of the front foot (metatarsals). A tarsal coalition most frequently involves the bones called the talus and calcaneus and sometimes the navicular. The fusion between these bones could be a fibrous soft tissues where there is a connection of fibrous tissue which join the 2 bones. The fusion may also be osseous in which there is a bony link fusing the two bones. This fusion amongst the bones limits the ordinary motion and flexibility with the joints which are affected producing a variety of different symptoms depending on the bones which might be affected. A tarsal coalition is usually not noticed early in children because the foot is usually still quite flexible, but about the teenage years the symptoms begin to show up. The actual factors that cause these tarsal coalitions aren't totally understood, however it is thought to be a hereditary disorder, meaning that it's been found from birth. In some cases, in adults, the tarsal coalition could also be a consequence of injury or osteo-arthritis.
Usually, the frequent symptoms associated with a tarsal coalition are relatively vague and may include discomfort in the region which is often to begin with hard to track down at one joint between the affected bones. This discomfort will usually exacerbate with a lot more activity and get better with rest. There will be a rigidity and limited capability to move within the joint or joints that happen to be fused. The coalition can cause weakness or muscle cramps from the affected leg or foot. There can be an irregular gait or walking habit for example a limp. There could also be an position concern for example a flatfoot or high-arched foot deformity could develop. The ultimate diagnosis of tarsal coalition is frequently made via a blend of clinical signs and history of the signs and symptoms and then imaging reports for example X-rays or perhaps a CT scan. This imaging will show the actual abnormal bony union or fibrous connection between the actual tarsal bones.
The treatment for a tarsal coalition is determined by the seriousness of pain as well as the impact that they have on day to day activities. Non-surgical methods usually are tried first and may include the cutting down on exercises which irritate symptoms or cause pain. Foot orthotic devices provides support and reduce excessive motion in the impacted joints. Stretching out and building up physical exercises will help improve joint mobility with the other joints around the affected areas. When the pain is especially bothersome, then nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medicines (NSAIDs) enables you to lower swelling and pain. If these types of steps tend not to provide enough relief and it is serious then surgical intervention could be considered. The goal of the surgical procedures are to separate the fused bones by taking out the connection involving the joint in an attempt to recover usual joint movements.