Spring Ligament Injuries
Spring ligament injuries are seen in 2 separate patient groups:
- Athletes can sustain an acute spring ligament sprain or rupture. They present with pain on in inside of their foot below the level of the ankle. The pain is usually intense and prevents athletic activity. The pain often persists longer than a typical ankle sprain. With time the athlete may note a slight collapse of their arch. “My foot seems to be turning in” is a common complaint.
- Older adults present with pain in a similar area. They often have a longstanding flat foot deformity, which occurs in association with posterior tibial tendon degeneration.
Treatment:
- For minor sprains in athletes a brief period of immobilization is utilized. This is often accomplished with a removable boot. Anti-inflammatories, ice, compression, rest, and physical therapy are also utilized. For more severe injuries surgical repair may be required.
- For older adults with degenerative tears, nonoperative treatment may include immobilization, physical therapy, anti-inflammatories, and rest. Eventually orthotics may be utilized. If these measures fail surgical reconstruction of the progressive arch collapse may be required.
