Ankle and foot disorders in skeletally immature athletes.

As one of the most commonly injured areas in the immature athlete, the foot and ankle has many disorders. Knowledge of congenital and developmental abnormalities and possible injury patterns enables the clinician to correctly diagnose these disorders. Physical examination and appropriate use of imaging technology provide confirmation of the initial impression. As children and adolescents participate in sports with greater intensity, there is a higher incidence of overuse injuries that may have long-term implications.