Ankle/Foot Conditions

Plantar fasciopathy involves pain and structural changes at the proximal insertion of the plantar fascia in the heel bone. Thickening and degenerative tissue findings are more common than inflammatory changes, so the term ‘plantar fasciopathy’ should better define the disorder known as ‘plantar fasciitis’. Modifiable risk factors for the development of plantar fasciopathy include limited …

Insertional Achilles tendinopathy  refers to the degeneration of the Achilles tendon where it attaches to the heel bone (calcaneus). This condition is characterized by pain, swelling, and stiffness at the lower portion of the tendon. Insertional Achilles tendinopathy is often seen in athletes, particularly those involved in running, jumping, or activities requiring sudden changes in …

Mid portion Achilles tendinopathy considers Achilles tendonitis and tendinosis under the one tendinopathy name. Achilles tendinopathy is specific localised pain that limits activity. Irritated tendons then undergo a pathological process that weakens the mechanical and material properties of the tendon, leading to a decrease in tendon stiffness and strength and ineffective force transfer. This may …

Calf muscle strain injuries are prevalent in many running based sports and contribute to the negative impact that any injury can have on team and individual success. The burden of calf muscle strain injuries can be significant with >3 months time-loss reported for some cases in American football, football (soccer) and Australian Football. Further compounding the …

Medial tibial stress syndrome, commonly known as “shin splints,” is a frequent injury of the lower extremity and one of the most common causes of exertional leg pain in athletes. New evidence indicates that a spectrum of tibial stress injuries is likely involved in shin splints, including tendinopathy, periostitis, periosteal remodeling, and stress reaction of …

Peroneal tenosynovitis is a condition characterised by an irritation and inflammation of the synovial sheath surrounding the peroneal tendons, typically occurring at the lateral aspect of the ankle. The peroneal tendons (peroneus longus and peroneus brevis) are responsible for stabilising the foot and ankle during walking and running by aiding in plantar flexion and eversion. …

The plantaris muscle is a small muscle that runs along the posterior compartment of the calf, originating from the lateral supracondylar ridge of the femur just above the knee joint, and inserting into the calcaneus via the Achilles tendon. It consists of a small muscle belly, located near the head of the gastrocnemius, and a …

The Achilles tendon is the strongest tendon in the body, but it is also the tendon most commonly torn or ruptured during high velocity or explosive contractions such as running, jumping or landing. The most common causes of rupture are: Sudden plantar flexion (foot moving downward) such as taking off to jump. Unplanned or forced …