If your child complains about their feet hurting, being stiff, or that they twist their ankle often, it might be more than just a sports-related issue. These could be subtle signs of a condition called tarsal coalition, which we at Podiatry Center of New Jersey have experience diagnosing. Let’s take a closer look at what this condition is, why it happens, and what it might feel like for your child or teenager.

What is Tarsal Coalition?

Tarsal coalition hints at a fusion, and that’s exactly what’s happening here. It’s essentially where two or more bones in the midfoot and back of the foot are abnormally joined together.

Normally, the foot’s many bones are separated and move independently, which allows for flexibility and shock absorption. But with tarsal coalition, the bones are conjoined by either:

Tissue

Cartilage

Or bone (fully fused).

Why Does Tarsal Coalition Happen?

Most of the time, Tarsal Coalition is something your child is born with. It’s a fetal development issue. And while the fusion is present from birth, it often doesn’t cause any noticeable symptoms until later in childhood or adolescence. This is because the connecting tissue or cartilage is soft at a young age, but as your child grows, the coalition begins to harden.

Signs of Tarsal Coalition to Watch For

You’ll probably notice the symptoms of tarsal coalition during the growth spurts of the tween years. Besides foot pain and stiffness, the most common signs are:

  • Recurring Ankle Sprains: A rigid foot can’t adapt to uneven surfaces, which makes it more prone to rolling and spraining the ankle.
  • Flat feet: A common symptom is the appearance of a rigid, flat foot that does not show an arch even when the child is on their tiptoes.
  • Limping: Your child might start limping to compensate for the pain and stiffness.

Diagnosing Tarsal Coalition

Tarsal Coalition can seem like a simple ankle sprain at first, but a podiatrist will do a thorough physical exam and check for flat feet and a poor range of motion.

But to confirm the diagnosis, we’ll typically use an X-ray to look for the bony fusion. In some cases, a podiatrist might even use a CT scan or MRI to get a more detailed look at the bones and soft tissues.

The good news is that with proper diagnosis, we can effectively manage tarsal coalition. The goal is to reduce pain and restore as much motion as possible, and of course, to help your child stay active.

So, if you notice any of these signs in your child’s foot, don’t hesitate to bring them in for a visit.

If you have more questions about foot care or want to address specific concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out to the expert team at Podiatry Center of New Jersey! Give us a call at (973) 925-4111 or make an appointment online.