Subtalar arthritis frequently follows trauma to the foot, such as a fracture of the calcaneous (heel). Pain is felt in motion of the subtalar joint, and x-rays will reveal irregularity of the bones between the talus and the calcaneous. There may be crepitus (a grinding sound) upon moving the joint along with tenderness with pressure over the sinus tarsi in front of the lateral malleolus (outside ankle bone). If splinting is part of the treatment plan, the peroneal muscles will likely spasm.
Weight bearing is painful with relief upon non-weight bearing and rest. This is a hard condition to manage satisfactorily. For chronic cases, surgical fusion is an option.
Other names or similar foot conditions:
- Calcaneal arthritis
Symptoms:
- Pain below the lateral malleolus (outside ankle bone)
- Grinding upon moving the subtalar joint
- Pain upon weight bearing
Signs to look for:
- History of calcaneal fracture
- Pain in the heel and/or below the lateral malleolus
- Grinding upon moving the subtalar joint
- Pain upon weight bearing
Possible Causes:
- Injury
- Systemic arthritis
Goals:
- Medical care as required
- Reduce stress on the heel
- Control motion of the foot
- Footwear that moves the foot forward with as little lateral movement as possible
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
- Plastazote cushion in shoe if additional cushioning is needed
Shoes:
- Extra depth, double or triple depth shoe with high toe box, firm heel counter, rocker sole and connecting shank
- Smart footwear, such as stable heel to rocker shoes, non-flexible forefoot shoes or shoes with titanium springs
- Avoid flip-flops. Only wear sandals with a back and only the Orthaheel, Alegria or Aetrex brand
- Wear heels and pumps only as long as absolutely necessary
- Avoid going barefoot or do so on a minimal basis only
Activities:
- Medical treatment
- 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 2005-2010 Carole Romig
Sources Image: Arthritisnaturalcure.net Text: R. Cailliet, MD, Foot and Ankle Pain, I. Alexander, The Foot: Exam & Diagnosis