Conditions & Treatments

Tarsal Coalition

A tarsal coalition is an abnormal connection that develops between two bones in the back of the foot (the tarsal bones). This abnormal connection, which can be composed of bone, cartilage or fibrous tissue, may lead to limited motion and pain in one or both feet.

The tarsal bones include the calcaneus (heel bone), talus, navicular, cuboid and cuneiform bones. These bones work together to provide the motion necessary for normal foot function.

Causes

Most often, tarsal coalition occurs during fetal development, resulting in the individual bones not forming properly. Less common causes of tarsal coalition include infection, arthritis or a previous injury to the area.

Diagnosis

A tarsal coalition is difficult to identify until a child’s bones begin to mature. It is sometimes not discovered until adulthood. Diagnosis includes obtaining information about the duration and development of the symptoms as well as a thorough examination of the foot and ankle. The findings of this examination will differ according to the severity and location of the coalition. In addition to examining the foot, the surgeon will order x-rays. Advanced imaging studies may also be required to fully evaluate the condition.

Symptoms

While many people who have a tarsal coalition are born with this condition, the symptoms generally do not appear until the bones begin to mature, usually around ages 9 to 16. Sometimes no symptoms are present during childhood. However, pain and symptoms may develop later in life. The symptoms of tarsal coalition may include one or more of the following:

Pain (mild to severe) when walking or standing
Tired or fatigued legs
Muscle spasms in the leg, causing the foot to turn outward when walking
Flatfoot (in one or both feet)
Walking with a limp
Stiffness of the foot and ankle

Treatments

Tarsal Coalition

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