Talar ridges, osteophytes, and beaks: a radiologic commentary.

Several types of osseous outgrowths that may appear on the dorsal surface of the talus are described. A normal talar ridge, located between the trochlea and distal articular surface of the talus, may hypertrophy in response to exaggerated stress. In addition, typical osteophytes may appear, indicative of osteoarthritis of the talocrural or talonavicular joint. Finally, a broad excrescence extending distally from the region of the talar ridge represents a sign of tarsal coalition. The location and the appearance of the bony outgrowths differ, allowing precise radiographic diagnosis.