Ankle Equinus

Most patients with equinus are unaware they have this condition until they see a physician and surgeons that understand the biomechanics of the foot and ankle. Diagnosis is determined via a detailed examination. Some cases an x-rays is taken to assess bone impingement

There are several possible causes for the limited range of ankle motion. Often, it is due to tightness in the Achilles tendon or calf muscles (the soleus muscle and/or gastrocnemius muscle). In some patients, this tightness is congenital (present at birth), and sometimes it is an inherited trait. Other patients acquire the tightness from being in a cast, being on crutches or frequently wearing high-heeled shoes. In addition, diabetes can affect the fibers of the Achilles tendon and cause tightness. Sometimes equinus is related to a bone blocking the ankle motion.

Treatment includes strategies aimed at relieving the symptoms and conditions associated with equinus. Treatment goals are to increase ankle range of motion in several ways.

Surgery is also an option as well as it does not effect the strength, is minimally invasive, and preformed in the OR with a small camera, See video below: