Equinus Treatment in NJ | Progressive Spine

What is Equinus?

Equinus is a condition that limits the ankle joint from bending upward. It can occur in one or both feet, but the limitation of motion is sometimes worse in one foot than the other.

People with Equinus compensate for their limited ankle motion in ways that can create other foot, leg, or back problems. Examples of methods of compensation include:

Flattening the arch when walking
Picking up the heel early when walking
Placing increased pressure on the ball of the foot
“Toe walking”
Taking steps by bending abnormally at the hip or knee

Equinus Causes and Conditions

A limited range of ankle motion is often due to tightness in the Achilles tendon or calf muscles, which may be congenital or inherited. Some other causes of this tightness include:

Being in a cast
Being on crutches
Frequently wearing high-heeled shoes
Diabetes
A fragment of bone blocking the ankle motion, such as after an ankle injury
One leg is shorter than the other
Spasms in the calf muscle may signal an underlying neurologic disorder

Depending on how you compensate for Equinus, the following conditions may develop over time:

Plantar fasciitis (arch and heel pain)
Calf cramping
Tendonitis (inflammation in the Achilles tendon)
Metatarsalgia (pain or callusing on the ball of the foot)
Flatfoot
Arthritis of the midfoot
Pressure sores on the ball of the foot or the arch
Bunions
Hammertoes
Ankle pain
Shin splints

How is Equinus Treated?

Treatment for Equinus includes strategies for relieving associated symptoms and conditions, such as:

The foot may be placed in a splint at night to keep it in a position that reduces the tightness of the calf muscle
Placing heel lifts inside the shoes to take the stress off the Achilles tendon
Arch supports or custom orthotic devices to keep weight distributed properly and control muscle and tendon imbalance
Physical therapy, such as exercises that stretch the calf muscles

Surgery may be necessary if the cause of Equinus is related to a tight tendon or a bone blocking the ankle motion. Dr. Bernstein will evaluate your condition and determine which type of procedure best suits your needs.

Why choose Dr. Bernstein for Equinus treatment?

If you’re suffering from Equinus, we can relieve your pain for good. Dr. Steven Bernstein is board-certified by the American Board of Foot and Ankle Surgery and specializes in reconstructive foot and ankle surgeries. His background includes extensive training and experience in foot and ankle trauma and deformities, including reconstruction of the forefoot, rearfoot, and ankle deformities. His expertise and professional certifications make him the best choice for Equinus treatment.

Equinus FAQ

How do I know if my calf tightness is actually Equinus?

Equinus is diagnosed through a physical examination that measures how far your ankle can bend upward with your knee straight and bent. Dr. Bernstein uses specific clinical tests to determine if your limited motion meets the criteria for Equinus.

Can children develop Equinus, or is it only an adult condition?

Children can develop Equinus, particularly if they have certain congenital conditions, neurological disorders, or prolonged periods of immobilization. Early diagnosis and treatment in children helps prevent compensatory problems as they grow.

How long do I need to wear night splints for Equinus treatment?

Night splint use varies by patient but typically continues for several months or until adequate ankle flexibility is achieved. Some patients benefit from ongoing periodic use to maintain their range of motion.

Can Equinus cause knee or hip pain?

Yes, Equinus often causes compensatory changes in walking patterns that can lead to pain in the knees, hips, and lower back. Treating the ankle limitation frequently resolves or improves these secondary symptoms.

Will stretching exercises alone cure Equinus?

Stretching can improve mild cases of Equinus but may not be sufficient for moderate to severe cases or those caused by bone abnormalities. Dr. Bernstein will determine if additional treatments such as orthotics or surgery are needed.

How does Equinus relate to Achilles tendon problems?

Equinus is often caused by a tight Achilles tendon, and the two conditions are closely related. Treating Equinus may involve Achilles tendon lengthening procedures when conservative measures prove insufficient.

Can wearing high heels cause Equinus?

Prolonged high heel use can contribute to calf muscle and Achilles tendon shortening, potentially leading to Equinus over time. Varying heel heights and performing regular calf stretches helps prevent this condition.

Is Equinus surgery performed as an outpatient procedure?

Most Equinus surgeries are performed on an outpatient basis, allowing patients to return home the same day. Dr. Bernstein will explain what to expect based on the specific surgical technique recommended for your case.

Equinusin New Jersey