We studied a series of seventeen cases of subtalar dislocation of the
foot. There were on anterior, twelve medial, and four lateral dislocations.
Of the seventeen dislocations, fourteen were closed and three, open. Two of
the four lateral dislocations were open. Associated fractures involving the
talocalcaneal or talonavicular joints were noted in eight feet, including
three of the four with a lateral dislocation. In two feet these fractures
were noted only on post-reduction polytomography. Associated fractures of
the ankle mortise and of the metatarsals were present in seven feet.
Associated fractures involving the subtalar or talonavicular joints, open
dislocations, and associated injuries requiring immobilization of the foot
for more than three weeks produced poor results due to pain and limitation
of subtalar motion. Lateral dislocations were particularly prone to poor
results, due to the frequency of open injuries and associated fractures.
Cast immobilization for three weeks and early range-of-motion exercises of
the subtalar joint are recommended for the best results.