The effect of ankle equinus upon the diabetic foot.

The association between ankle equinus and common foot pathologies such as Achilles tendinitis, metatarsalgia, Morton's neuroma, hallux abductovalgus, and plantar fasciitis has been described. However, the association between ankle equinus and diabetic foot pathology has only been recognized recently. Over half of the non-traumatic amputations occurring in the United States are related to complications of diabetes. It is imperative that risk factors for lower extremity ulceration and amputation are identified and addressed. This article reviews the effect of ankle equinus deformity on the diabetic foot and the available treatment options. New data on the prevalence of equinus in a population of patients with diabetes are also presented.