ABSTRACT
The authors have attempted to lead the reader through a comprehensive and systematic diagnosis of the patient with the flatfoot. The authors followed the familiar SOAP format. Within each of the major steps (subjective findings, objective findings, assessment, and plan) a systematic algorithm is proposed. These are designed with the objective of comprehensively evaluating the patient. This should dissuade the reader from myopically approaching the flatfoot, and potentially missing comorbid or etiologic systemic disease. A brief introduction to a systematic treatment philosophy is also presented. Unfortunately exhaustive discussion of each of the steps would require a separate article. The authors hope that the controversies highlighted will stimulate further research into this subject. It is also hoped that anyone approaching the patient with flexible flatfoot would avoid some of the dogmatic philosophies that have plagued this subject. Until well-developed scientific research answering the basic questions is done, all currently available approaches are based on opinion and personal bias.
Subject(s)
Flatfoot/diagnosis , Algorithms , Child , Flatfoot/classification , Flatfoot/etiology , Flatfoot/physiopathology , Humans , Range of Motion, Articular , Terminology as TopicABSTRACT
For children with normal anatomy, nonskid socks may be safe for indoor wear. However, they lack some protection capacity, and are not biomechanically helpful. Little scientific data exist to guide physicians on what children should wear on their feet. Dogma and prejudice may taint the advice physicians give. Perhaps this type of project will spur further investigation.
Subject(s)
Shoes , Walking , Child, Preschool , Female , Humans , Infant , MaleABSTRACT
Avascular necrosis (AVN) of the talus is a controversial complication of trauma in children. A case of AVN is presented with a 2-year follow-up. More aggressive initial treatment may be indicated to avoid this complication. Close follow-up and suspicion are recommended.
Subject(s)
Osteonecrosis/diagnosis , Talus , Ankle Injuries/complications , Child, Preschool , Follow-Up Studies , Humans , Magnetic Resonance Imaging , Male , Osteonecrosis/diagnostic imaging , Osteonecrosis/etiology , RadiographyABSTRACT
In the practice of Korean karate, the foot is often used as a weapon in self defense. Injuries to the foot are common. Analysis of patterns to these injuries and requirements of the sport led to the development of a strapping technique for protecting the foot from the most common injuries.
