TARSOMALACIA Meaning and
Definition
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Tarsomalacia is a medical term that refers to the softening of the tarsal bones. The tarsal bones are a group of seven bones located in the ankle and foot region. This condition is often characterized by a diminished rigidity or firmness of the tarsal bones, leading to various symptoms and potential complications.
The softening of the tarsal bones in tarsomalacia can occur due to a variety of factors, including trauma, inflammation, infection, or metabolic disorders. It is most commonly associated with nutritional deficiencies, particularly a lack of vitamin D and calcium, which are essential for maintaining healthy bones.
Individuals with tarsomalacia may experience symptoms such as pain, swelling, and tenderness in the affected area. They may also have difficulty walking, as the weakened bones may be unable to provide adequate support. In severe cases, the tarsal bones may even be at risk of fracturing or collapsing, leading to further complications.
Diagnosis of tarsomalacia often involves a thorough physical examination and medical history evaluation. Imaging tests, such as X-rays or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), may also be performed to assess the condition and determine its severity. Treatment options typically focus on addressing the underlying cause, such as nutritional deficiencies, and may include supplementation with vitamin D and calcium, as well as pain management techniques like rest, physical therapy, and the use of supportive devices like braces or orthotics.
In summary, tarsomalacia is a condition characterized by the softening of the tarsal bones, often due to nutritional deficiencies or other underlying causes. Prompt diagnosis and appropriate treatment can help alleviate symptoms and prevent further complications.
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Softening of the tarsal cartilages of the eyelids.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for TARSOMALACIA
- tarsomalacma
- tarsomalacha
- tarsomalacii
- tarsomalacie
- tarsomalacic
- tarsewmalacia
- tarsowmalacia
- t arsomalacia
- ta rsomalacia
- tar somalacia
- tars omalacia
- tarso malacia
- tarsom alacia
- tarsoma lacia
- tarsomal acia
- tarsomala cia
- tarsomalac ia
- tarsomalaci a
Etymology of TARSOMALACIA
The word "tarsomalacia" is derived from two roots: "tarsus" and "malacia".
The term "tarsus" refers to the anatomical structure of the foot in vertebrates, specifically the bones in the hind part of the foot. It comes from the Latin word "tarsus", which itself comes from the Greek word "tarsos" meaning "flat surface or sole of the foot".
The suffix "malacia" is of Greek origin meaning "softening". It is commonly used in medical terminology to describe pathological conditions involving softening of a specific tissue or structure.
Therefore, the word "tarsomalacia" combines these two roots to describe a pathological condition where there is softening or degeneration of the tarsus bones in the foot.
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