In plain language
An abnormal bony, cartilaginous or fibrous connection between tarsal bones, commonly calcaneonavicular or talocalcaneal, restricting hindfoot movement.
Clinical Significance & Management
Some are asymptomatic; pain often emerges during growth. Observe painless cases. Symptomatic cases usually start with activity changes, support or temporary immobilization. Persistent pain may warrant resection or fusion according to extent, arthritis and alignment.
Symptoms & Clinical Presentation
Deep foot-ankle pain and restricted hindfoot motion
Rigid flatfoot, fatigue or repeated sprains
Etiology & Injury Mechanisms
- Usually developmental failure of bone separation
- Symptoms may follow growth, loading or injury
Diagnostics & Imaging Guide
Arch, heel-rise and subtalar motion assessment
Radiographs; CT for bone extent, MRI for nonosseous connections
Treatment Options
No treatment for asymptomatic findings; load reduction, orthoses or immobilization for pain
Selected resection after failed care; fusion for appropriate advanced disease
Rehabilitation Milestones & Timeline
Rehabilitation depends on the diagnosis, procedure and associated injuries. Progression requires assessment of healing, symptoms and function; elapsed time or a single test cannot determine readiness for sport.
Settle
Reduce provoking loads while retaining tolerable activity
Rehabilitate
Restore strength/balance after immobilization without forcing structural limits
Return
Progress by walking and sport tolerance; postoperative loading follows procedure
Evidence-Based Clarifications
Rigid and flexible flatfoot differ. Forceful stretching cannot remove the bridge; surgery must match the anatomy.
Sources & References
Educational clinical definitions synthesized from AAOS, Cleveland Clinic, Mayo Clinic, and HSS. Individual diagnosis and surgery require professional medical evaluation.
Publication date
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