Common disorders of the foot and ankle

This article discusses clinical assessment of the foot and ankle, and management of some common foot and ankle disorders. Pinpointing the source of pain is the key to diagnosis. Treatment is determined by symptom severity and patient expectations, and may be non-operative or surgical. Common ankle problems include osteoarthritis, osteochondral lesions of the talus, and ankle instability. Hindfoot and midfoot problems include osteoarthritis, heel pain and planovalgus or cavovarus deformity. Forefoot problems include hallux valgus, hallux rigidus, lesser toe deformities and metatarsalgia. Rheumatoid arthritis typically affects the forefoot joints first, progressing to larger proximal joints later. Soft tissue problems include Morton’s neuroma, ingrowing toenails, and ganglions. Patients with diabetes mellitus are at high risk of foot problems that can occasionally lead to amputation if neglected. Complex regional pain syndrome causes persistent pain and loss of function after an injury or operation, requiring prolonged, multidisciplinary treatment.