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PATHOLOGIES
MIDFOOT AND HINDFOOT CONDITIONS
The midfoot and hindfoot form the structural foundation of the foot and are critical to its overall function and alignment. Conditions in this area, such as flatfoot, cavovarus deformities, arthritis, and plantar fasciitis, can lead to progressive pain and instability if left untreated. We offer expert evaluation and treatment for complex midfoot and hindfoot pathologies, helping patients regain mobility and prevent long-term complications.
Flatfoot, or pes planus, is a condition where the arch of the foot collapses, causing the entire sole to come into contact with the ground. It can occur in one or both feet, and may be flexible (arch appears when non-weight bearing) or rigid (arch absent in all positions).
Cavovarus foot is a condition where the foot has a high arch (cavus) combined with an inward heel tilt (varus). This causes excessive weightbearing on the outer side of the foot and reduced shock absorption. It can affect one or both feet and is often progressive.
Midfoot arthritis refers to the degeneration of the joints in the middle part of the foot, specifically in the tarsal bones that make up the midfoot. These joints are responsible for the stability and movement of the foot during walking and standing. As the cartilage between these bones wears down, it can lead to pain, stiffness, and difficulty with daily activities.
Hindfoot arthritis refers to degenerative changes affecting one or more of the joints in the back of the foot, specifically, Subtalar joint (below the ankle – allows side-to-side motion), Talonavicular joint, and Calcaneocuboid joint. These joints are critical for shock absorption and foot mobility, especially on uneven ground. When affected by arthritis, they can become stiff, painful, and swollen, limiting walking and mobility.
A Lisfranc injury refers to damage to the Lisfranc joint complex, which connects the midfoot bones to the forefoot. This injury often involves fractures or dislocations of the bones in the midfoot, leading to instability and dysfunction. Named after a French surgeon, Jacques Lisfranc, who described the injury, it is a serious condition that can significantly affect foot function.
An accessory navicular is an extra piece of bone or cartilage located on the inner side of the foot, next to the navicular bone. It’s a common congenital variant, but in some people it becomes painful due to fracture through the area where the accessory navicular joins to the main navicular, irritation of the surrounding tendon (particularly the tibialis posterior) or pressure from shoe wear.
A base of 5th metatarsal fracture is a break at the outer side of the foot, where the fifth metatarsal (the long bone leading to the little toe) meets the midfoot. These fractures are common and vary by location and mechanism:
Plantar fasciitis is the most common cause of heel pain. It occurs when the plantar fascia, a thick band of connective tissue running along the bottom of the foot from the heel to the toes, becomes inflamed due to repetitive stress or overuse. The condition typically causes a sharp pain in the heel, especially with the first steps in the morning or after long periods of rest.
