Ankle Equinus is recognizable when the heel either does not touch the ground or does so intermittently. A toe-to-toe gait or heel-to-toe gait predominates instead of the normal heel-to-toe gait. This condition is seen in small children who “tip toe” as they walk. This usually disappears with time. The formal objective criterion for diagnosis is the inability of the foot to dorsiflex 10 degrees at the ankle with the knee extended.
Although it is found in healthy individuals – usually through habitual toe walking – it is also commonly found with some neurological conditions and orthopedic disabilities.
Other names or similar foot conditions:
- Osseous equinus
- Gastrocnemius equinus
Symptoms:
- Pain in the forefoot, ankle or calf muscles
- Callus formation over metatarsal heads (ball of the foot)
- Tight and inflexible Achilles tendon
- Knee hyperextension
Signs to look for:
- Bouncy gait pattern
- Toe to toe gait or heel to toe gait pattern
- Excessive shoe wear at forefoot
- Inability to maintain a heel to toe gait
- Hyperpronation
- Excessive knee hyperextension
Possible Causes:
- Heredity
- Trauma
- Habitual toe-walking
- Neurological conditions
Goals:
- Bring the ground up to the heel to release the force on the metatarsal heads
- Stretching of the gastrocnemius soleus complex
- Reduce friction on metatarsal heads
- Control motion of foot
How We Help:
Arch Supports:
- BioOrthotic exercising support with metatarsal lift
- Lower and thinner arch support with longitudinal and metatarsal support for use when shoes cannot accommodate the BioOrthotic exercising support
Shoes:
Activities:
- Regular stretching of gastrocnemius, soleus muscles, and Achilles tendon
- Rotate weight bearing exercises, such as walking or jogging, with non-weight bearing exercising, such as swimming or bicycling
This information does not constitute a diagnosis of your condition and does not take the place of a doctor’s care. The information has been compiled from sources available to the general public and referenced below. Copyright 2005-2011 Carole Romig
Sources Image: R. Cailliet, MD, Foot and Ankle Pain, G. Copeland, DPM, The Foot Book Text: Decker, Albert, Contemporary Pedorthics, B. Meanwell, CPed, D. Janisse, CPed, Introduction to Pedorthics