Talarroll

Talarroll is a biomechanical term describing the coupled rotation and rolling of the talus bone within the ankle joint, particularly at the talocrural joint, during dorsiflexion and plantarflexion. The concept is used to describe how the talus pivots over the tibia and moves within the ankle mortise during gait.

The term combines "talus" and "roll" and appears in some biomechanical and rehabilitation literature as a descriptive descriptor rather than a formal diagnosis. It does not refer to a discrete pathology on its own.

Talarroll can be assessed indirectly through gait analysis, dynamic fluoroscopy, or MRI sequences designed to capture joint motion. Metrics may include the anterior-posterior tilt of the talus, the ratio of anterior versus posterior talar contact, and the smoothness of the roll pattern across cycles.

Abnormal talarroll patterns have been discussed in relation to ankle instability, osteochondral lesions of the talar dome, and subtalar compensation. In rehabilitation, restoring a normal talarroll pattern is often a goal alongside range of motion, strength, and proprioception.

Treatment is directed at underlying causes, with physical therapy, balance and neuromuscular training, orthotic support, and, in selected cases, surgical correction for structural abnormalities.