Foot & ankle international
-
Comparative Study
A surgical approach for flexible flatfeet in adults including a subtalar arthroereisis with the MBA sinus tarsi implant.
The purpose of this study was to determine the functional outcomes and radiographic results of adult patients who had an operation for flexible flatfeet without any hindfoot osteotomies or fusions. ⋯ Reconstructive foot and ankle surgery that included a subtalar arthroereisis with the MBA sinus tarsi implant resulted in favorable clinical outcomes and patient satisfaction in 78% (18) of 23 patients. In spite of the high incidence of temporary sinus tarsi pain until the implant was removed, this operative approach compares favorably with other operations for flexible flatfoot deformities in adults.
-
Comparative Study
The incidence of Achilles tendon ruptures in Edmonton, Canada.
The incidence of Achilles tendon ruptures specific to the North American population has not been previously reported and current epidemiological data are primarily reported from European communities. The purpose of this study was to determine the incidence of Achilles tendon ruptures in the city of Edmonton, Alberta, Canada, and to compare this data to those reported in European studies. ⋯ The incidence of Achilles tendon ruptures in this community was comparable to those reported in European communities (range 6 to 37 ruptures per 100,000 people), although a bimodal age distribution of rupture previously reported was not observed in this study.
-
There is no universally accepted instrument that can be used to evaluate changes in self-reported physical function for individuals with leg, ankle, and foot musculoskeletal disorders. The objective of this study was to develop an instrument to meet this need: the Foot and Ankle Ability Measure (FAAM). Additionally, this study was designed to provide validity evidence for interpretation of FAAM scores. ⋯ The FAAM is a reliable, responsive, and valid measure of physical function for individuals with a broad range of musculoskeletal disorders of the lower leg, foot, and ankle.
-
Previous reports recommended using skin temperature as a guide to monitor neuropathic feet during their rehabilitation course. However, the diagnostic usefulness was limited because of poor thermal measurement and procedures. The purpose of this study was to propose a standardized protocol to quantify foot temperature. ⋯ The mean temperature of the entire plantar area was found to be more stable than the individual subregions, serving as a more practical indicator for thermoregulatory functions. The study also found that the overall mean plantar temperature stabilized after 15 minutes, and, thus, this time was recommended for clinical thermographic measurements. The normalized temperature may have more useful application than the plantar absolute temperature, as exemplified by the better correlation in diabetic feet. The mean plantar temperature, the wait time to start measurement, and the proposed normalization are believed to play important roles in neuropathic foot disorders.