Update on Subtalar Joint Instability

Abstract

Subtalar joint stability is ensured by the osseous geometry of the talocalcaneal joint and the complex array of the ligaments at the medial and lateral aspect of the ankle joint, the sinus and canalis tarsi, and the talocalcaneonavicular joint, respectively. There is still a substantial lack of knowledge about the interaction of the ankle and subtalar joint complex. Subtalar joint instability appears to be more frequent than is generally assumed. The diagnosis of chronic subtalar joint instability makes the application of a comprehensive algorithm necessary. There is ongoing debate about the preferable techniques for restoration of subtalar joint stability.

Keywords: Diagnostic algorithm; Interosseous talocalcaneal ligament; Lateral ankle ligament complex; Ligamentous reconstruction; Medial subtalar instability; Subtalar instability; Subtalar joint.