Tarsal Coalition in Children

Area of Science:

• Orthopedics
• Podiatry
• Medical Imaging

Background:

• Tarsal coalition is a congenital anomaly involving abnormal fibrous, cartilaginous, or bony connections between tarsal bones.
• It classically manifests as recurrent ankle sprains or the insidious onset of a painful, stiff flatfoot.

Observation:

• Distinguishing rigid flatfoot from flexible flatfoot is critical in evaluating patients.
• Patients presenting with recurrent ankle sprains or a stiff flatfoot require evaluation for tarsal coalition.

Findings:

• Diagnosis relies on careful clinical examination, specifically assessing subtalar joint stiffness.
• Appropriate imaging studies are essential for confirming the presence and type of tarsal coalition.

Implications:

• Early and accurate diagnosis of tarsal coalition can guide appropriate management strategies.
• Both nonoperative and operative treatment options are available for managing tarsal coalition.