Tarsal coalitions – what you need to know

Tarsal coalition was first described by Buffon in 1769. It can be congenital or acquired and may present as a problem in childhood, adolescence and adulthood. Occasionally it presents as part of a more complex syndrome affecting not only the foot but also other organs in the body.This review article explores the aetiology, pathomechanics and potential modes of presentation of this unusual condition. Intervention is guided by the symptoms, presenting age and the flexibility of the foot. We present a treatment algorithm that we hope is clear and guides clinical management.