Background There are no publications in literature describing an association between disorders of the ligaments and tendons supporting the foot arch and osteochondral lesions of the talus (OCLT). We believe there may be a correlation between the damage of these structures. Purpose To investigate the pathologies of main ligaments and tendons that support the foot arch in sprained ankles, by reviewing magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) studies and comparing the results in two groups of patients, with and without OCLT. Material and Methods MR images from 316 patients examined in the orthopedic clinic for ankle sprain were evaluated for pathologic findings of the plantar fascia, short and long plantar ligaments, spring ligament, sinus tarsi, and ankle tendons supporting the foot arch. Findings were compared between two groups of patients: 158 patients with OCLT and 158 patients without OCLT. Results Plantar fascia, short plantar ligament, and spring ligament abnormalities were seen in 50 (31.6%), 28 (17.7%), and 60 (38%) patients with OCLT, and in nine (5.6%), three (1.9%), and 18 (11.4%) patients without OCLT, respectively ( P < 0.05). Sinus tarsi and tendon abnormalities were seen in 11 (6.7%) and nine (5.7%) patients with OCLT, and in eight (5%) and eight (5%) patients without OCLT, respectively ( P > 0.05). Two or more associated abnormalities were present in 50 (31.6%) patients with OCLT and in 11 (6.7%) without OCLT ( P < 0.05). Conclusion Plantar fascia, short plantar ligament, and spring ligament abnormalities were commonly seen in patients with OCLT on MRI, while sinus tarsi and tendon abnormalities were not. Concomitant pathologies have an increased incidence in patients with OCLT.
Keywords: Foot arch; ligament; magnetic resonance imaging (MRI); osteochondral lesion; talus.