The foot provides a unique environment for the development of infections, which can be aggressive and result in significant disability. The foot’s environment is modified by footwear, trauma, systemic illness, and climate. Each of these factors can increase the susceptibility…
Background Both the burden of disease attributable to diabetes mellitus, and the incidence in our population, continues to rise. According to the National Diabetes Statistical Report, 2014, over 34 million Americans, or almost 10% of the population, are diabetic. Another…
Overview Ring fixation is an incredibly useful technique that adds a valuable dimension in the treatment of lower extremity deformity, ankle arthritis, and limb shortening when traditional methods are not practical. Familiarity with ring fixation is important for foot and…
Pes cavus describes a foot with a high arch that maintains its shapeand does not flatten out with weight bearing. The components of pes cavus, in order of frequency, are an increased calcaneal pitch and varus of the hindfoot, plantar…
Pes Planus The medial arch of the foot consists of a complex of fascia, ligaments, bone, and tendons that create a tough yet elastic structure that helps provide shock absorption and allow for a dynamic character of the foot to…
Extensor Tendons Extensor tendon injuries of the foot and ankle are uncommon, but understanding their diagnosis and treatment can prevent morbidity from neglected care. Anzel et al evaluated 1014 cases of tendon injuries at the Mayo Clinic and noted that…
Hallux Rigidus Definition The term hallux rigidus describes a painful condition of the metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint of the great toe characterized by restricted motion (mainly dorsiflexion) and proliferative periarticular bone formation. It was initially reported in 1887 by Davies-Colley, who…
Introduction Midfoot arthritis is a common source of foot pain and deformity. There are numerous underlying etiologies resulting in arthritis of the midfoot of which posttraumatic arthritis is the most common. Nonoperative treatment of midfoot arthritis can be effective. If…
Hindfoot and pantalar arthritis causes debilitating pain and functional limitation and is frequently associated with varus or valgus deformity, prior trauma, or inflammatory arthritis. Arthrodesis was initially described in 1878 as a way of stabilizing the foot for paralytic deformities.…
Introduction and Etiology Avascular necrosis (AVN, or osteonecrosis) is death of bone due to lack of blood supply. The talus is at risk for vascular insult due to the nature of its limited and tenuous blood supply. AVN of the…