ANKLE EQUINUS - CAUSES AND TREATMENT
posted: Jul. 27, 2018.
What is Ankle Equinus?
An ankle equinus deformity is not a medical condition as such but is more reflective of a condition where the foot is unable to dorsiflex, or bend upwards at the level of the ankle joint. As a result of this condition, there are many foot and ankle problems that can occur. Patients rarely present to the office complaining of a restricted range of motion in the ankle, but rather present with one or more of the problems that this condition can create. This lack of dorsiflexion then requires the lower limb to compensate in some capacity to make up for this lack of motion.
Causes
- Muscle tightness (gastroc-soleus)
- Tightness in the Achilles Tendon
- Congenital
- Wearing high-heeled shoes
- Crutches use
- Limb length discrepancy
- Diabetes
Treatment
The first step in treating equinus is the identification of the reason for the equinus. If equinus is due to tightness of the calf and Achilles tendon, initial treatment focuses on decreasing the tightness of the calf and Achilles tendon. Conservative care includes wearing a heel lift and stretching the calf muscle. Shoes with a higher heel also are helpful. Patients with equinus should avoid going barefoot or wearing only socks.
The first step in treating equinus is the identification of the reason for the equinus. If equinus is due to tightness of the calf and Achilles tendon, initial treatment focuses on decreasing the tightness of the calf and Achilles tendon. Conservative care includes wearing a heel lift and stretching the calf muscle. Shoes with a higher heel also are helpful. Patients with equinus should avoid going barefoot or wearing only socks.
Brought to you by Doctor John A. Hardy, owner of Toronto's foot clinic, Academy Foot and Orthotics Clinic.
