CALCANEAL NAVICULAR COALITION
The calcaneal navicular coalition is a congenital condition. The calcaneus (heel bone) and navicular (bone in the midfoot) are joined together by bone or fibrous tissue. This connection can cause a variety of symptoms, including pain, stiffness, and difficulty walking.
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What Causes Calcaneal Navicular Coalition
The calcaneal navicular coalition is a congenital (present at birth) condition, meaning that it is caused by an abnormality in the development of the bones in the foot while the fetus grows in the womb. The exact cause of this abnormality is not fully understood, but scientists believe genetics and other factors affect this condition.
The Symptoms of Calcaneal Navicular Coalition can Vary but may Include:
- Pain: Pain in the foot, especially in the midfoot, appears as the most common symptom of Calcaneal navicular coalition.
- Swelling: Swelling in the midfoot may also occur.
- Stiffness: The affected foot may feel stiff and have a limited range of motion.
- Foot deformity: In some cases, the affected foot may appear deformed, with an abnormally high arch or other changes in the shape of the foot.
- Difficulty walking: Pain and stiffness can make it difficult to walk, and may lead to a limp or other changes in gait.
It is important to note that the symptoms of the Calcaneal navicular coalition may not appear until later in life, and doctors may not diagnose the condition until adulthood. Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent the condition from becoming more severe and reduce the risk of complications.
Diagnoses
Doctors diagnose the calcaneal navicular coalition by a combination of physical examination, medical history, and imaging tests. The following tests are commonly used to diagnose this condition:
- Physical examination: This includes a thorough examination of the foot. It includes a range of motion testing and evaluation of any tenderness or swelling in the affected area.
- X-rays: X-rays of the foot can identify the bones and detect any abnormalities, such as the fusion of the calcaneus and navicular bones.
- MRI: Magnetic Resonance Imaging, an advanced imaging test, provides a detailed view of the soft tissues and bones in the foot. This scan can confirm a diagnosis of the Calcaneal navicular coalition.
In some cases, doctors order additional tests, such as a CT scan or bone scan. These tests can obtain a more complete picture of the condition and its impact on the foot.
It is important to seek medical attention if your child is experiencing pain or discomfort in the foot. An early diagnosis and treatment can improve outcomes and help prevent the condition from becoming more severe.
QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS
What is Calcaneal Navicular Coalition?
Calcaneal Navicular Coalition is a congenital condition where the bones of the calcaneus (heel bone) and navicular (foot bone) fuse together
What are the symptoms of Calcaneal Navicular Coalition?
Symptoms of Calcaneal Navicular Coalition include pain in the foot and ankle, difficulty walking, and limited range of motion in the foot.
How do doctors treat Calcaneal Navicular Coalition?
Treatment for Calcaneal Navicular Coalition depends on the severity of the condition and may include non-surgical options such as physical therapy, orthotics, and pain management or surgical options such as arthrodesis (fusion_ or osteotomy (bone cutting). Doctors treat this condition to relieve pain and improve function.
The Medical City Children’s Orthopedics and Spine Specialists are experts when it comes to children and their health. To get the very best for your child, make an appointment with a children’s specialist
The Surgical Treatments
Surgical treatments may include:
- Bone or joint reconstruction: This involves separating the fused bones and reconstructing the affected joint to improve mobility and reduce pain.
- Osteotomy: This involves cutting and reshaping the bone to realign the affected joint and reduce stress on the affected area.
- Arthrodesis: This is a surgical procedure in which the joint is fused to eliminate motion and relieve pain.
- Joint implant: This involves the use of a joint implant to replace the affected joint and improve mobility.
It is important to note that surgical intervention is usually only recommended if non-surgical treatments have failed. For instance, rest, physical therapy, orthotics, and pain management. The type of surgical treatment that is best for an individual with Calcaneal navicular coalition will depend on a variety of factors. Those factors include the severity of the condition, the individual’s age and overall health, and their specific symptoms and needs. Parents should seek a pediatric orthopedic surgeon to determine the best course of action.
The Age that Doctors Can Surgically Correct Calcaneal Navicular Coalition
The surgical correction of Calcaneal navicular coalition varies and depends on several factors, including:
- The severity of the condition: If the condition is causing significant pain and limitations in mobility, surgery may occur at an earlier age.
- Age and overall health of the individual: Younger individuals with Calcaneal navicular coalition who are otherwise healthy may become good candidates for surgery.
- Non-surgical treatments: If non-surgical treatments, such as physical therapy and pain management, do not work, doctors recommend surgery regardless of age.
It is important to note that the best time for surgery will depend on the individual’s specific needs and situation. A thorough evaluation by an orthopedic surgeon is recommended. The doctor’s examination will determine the most appropriate course of action. In some cases, doctors may postpone the surgery until later in life. This is usually if the condition does not cause significant pain or limitations in mobility.
The Recovery Period for Surgery on Calcaneal Navicular Coalition
The recovery period for surgery varies and depends on several factors, including:
- Type of surgery: The recovery period for more complex surgical procedures to fix the condition may last longer than for a simple osteotomy.
- Age and overall health of the individual: Younger, healthier individuals may recover quickly. Older patients with underlying health conditions may take longer.
- Compliance with postoperative care: Following the recommended postoperative care, such as physical therapy and rest, can help speed up the recovery process.
In general, recovery from surgery for Calcaneal navicular coalition can take several months to a year or more. During this time, the individual may need to use crutches or a walker. The patient will also need to limit their activities to allow the affected area to heal properly. Physical therapy and other forms of rehabilitation will help during the recovery period to restore mobility and strength.
It is important to follow the recommendations of the treating orthopedic surgeon to ensure a safe and successful recovery.
Why Choose Medical City Children’s Orthopedics and Spine Specialists
Finally, our doctors at Medical City Children’s Orthopedics and Spine Specialists, with offices in Arlington, Dallas, Flower Mound, Frisco, and McKinney, TX, understand the importance of maintaining your child’s health. In addition, our experts and specialists have the training, knowledge, and experience required to take care of a sprained or broken ankle that is causing pain to your child. If your child experiences any form of ankle pain, don’t hesitate to call our office to schedule an appointment at one of our four locations.
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Footnote:
National Library of Medicine: CalcanealNavicular Coalition
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