Foot And Ankle Flashcards
What is a lateral ankle ligament sprain?
Overstretching and possible tearing of the lateral ligaments of the ankle, typically involving the anterior talofibular ligament (ATFL), calcaneofibular ligament (CFL), and posterior talofibular ligament (PTFL).
What are medial ligament sprains?
Involve the deltoid ligament, are far less common but more debilitating, and may occur with fractures of the medial malleolus or talar dome.
What are syndesmosis injuries?
Injuries that occur at the joint between the tibia and fibula.
What are the mechanisms of a lateral ankle sprain?
Usually caused by inversion and plantar flexion.
What are some risk factors for lateral ankle sprains?
Weight-bearing activities on uneven surfaces, activities requiring rapid changes in direction, lack of strength and stability due to previous injury, congenital ligamentous laxity, and acquired ligamentous laxity.
What diagnostic imaging is recommended for ankle injuries?
Ankle X-rays are recommended based on the Ottawa ankle rules.
What findings indicate the need for ankle X-rays?
Bone tenderness at the lateral malleolus, bone tenderness at the medial malleolus, and inability to bear weight.
What findings indicate the need for foot X-rays?
Pain in the midfoot zone, bone tenderness at the 5th metatarsal, bone tenderness at the navicular bone, and inability to bear weight.
What is the gold standard for evaluating an osteochondral lesion?
MRI is the gold standard if there is significant pain and disability at around 4-6 weeks following a routine ankle sprain.
What are common examination findings for ankle injuries?
Decreased weight bearing on the affected side, swelling and bruising over the lateral ankle, pain on palpation over ligaments, and reduced range of motion.
What is the anterior draw test?
A test that is positive if there is increased anterior translation of the talus or reproduction of familiar symptoms.
What is the initial management for a negative Ottawa ankle rule?
Begin moving within pain limits as normal gait is possible, with functional support like cane or crutches for 10 days and bracing/taping for 4-6 weeks.
What is Achilles tendinopathy?
A very common injury, especially in middle-aged adults, characterized by chronic overuse and microtrauma to the Achilles tendon.
What are the risk factors for Achilles tendinopathy?
Advanced age, overuse, inadequate recovery, changes in training activity or surface, biomechanical factors, male gender, type 2 diabetes, and menopause.
What are clinical features of Achilles tendinopathy?
Posterior heel pain, palpable tenderness, thickening of the tendon, and reduced plantar flexion strength.
What is plantar fasciopathy?
Refers to the inflammation or degeneration of the plantar fascia due to repetitive overuse.
What are common symptoms of plantar fasciopathy?
Heel pain, stiffness, and pain on the medial plantar heel.
What are management strategies for plantar fasciopathy?
Education, referral for anti-inflammatories, manual therapy, and exercise rehabilitation.
