Foot, Ankle, and Lower Leg Chapter 15

The Foot The three major groups of bones are –Tarsals –Metatarsals –Phalanges A grand total of 28 bones in the foot

The Cup and Saucer The tibia and fibula fit the talus like a cup and saucer

Muscles in the calf There are two major muscles in the posterior calf. Gastrocnemius Soleus

Lateral Ligaments The anterior talofibular ligament is the most commonly sprained ligament in the ankle

Medial Ligaments The deltoid ligament is very strong When it is injured the athlete should be tested for a tibial fracture Eversions sprains make up approximately 15% of all ankle sprains

Great Toe Sprain “Turf Toe” The great toe is very important for a variety of functions –Balance –Kicking –Walking –Running –Push off

Ankle Braces Bracing has been proven to be more effective than taping in many studies. Taping tends to loose shape and effectiveness over time (as short as 20 minutes) Braces should allow the athlete a full range of motion and should be comfortable

AIRCAST This is not an athletic ankle brace its too restrictive

Ankle dislocations Important to call for this injury Blood vessels and nerves may be damaged

Tendonitis/Tendinitis Most common at this region is ACHILLES and POSTERIOR TIBIALIS tendonitis Inflammation of the tendon Occurs as a result of overuse/under conditioning

Achilles Tendonitis Can be very painful Can set you up for a rupture if it does heal/go away

Achilles Rupture Can happen with –Forceful contraction of gastroc –Blow to the tendon –Forced dorsiflexion

Fractures at the lower leg ALL fractures must be splinted above and below the injury site This involves the whole foot and the knee Refer for xrays and call if its serious Do not move athlete if it causes pain

Jones Fracture An avulsion of the 5 th metatarsal Involves peroneus brevis tendon Occurs with forceful inversion

Shin Splints Medial Tibial Stress Syndrome Pain at the medial tibia Muscle fibers pulling away from the tibia Occurs b/c athlete is out of shape, older running shoes, tight calf muscles

Anterior Compartment Syndrome A very serious condition!! Diminished pulse Often occurs after trauma to the area Requires surgical repair (fascieotomy)

Toe Abnormalities

PRICES The best way to take care of almost any injury: Protect Rest Ice Compress Elevate Support