Coleman Block Test

Other Names

Figure 1. Examples of clinical hindfoot alignment measurements with the Coleman block. (A) Standing tibiocalcaneal angle (STCA) is represented by angle α, and (B) resting calcaneal stance position (RCSP) is represented by angle ω.

Coleman Block Test

• Coleman Block Test

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Purpose

• Evaluates hindfoot flexibility and pronation of forefoot
  • The test is based on premise that there is fixed flexion of 1st metatarsal
  • Based on the premise that the supportive block negates the effect of forefoot deformity (first metatarsal in fixed plantar flexion) on hind foot stance

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Description

• Place the patient's foot on wood block, 2.5 to 4 cm thick
  • The heel and lateral border of foot on the block and bearing full weight
  • The first, second, & 3rd metatarsals are allowed to hang freely into plantar flexion and pronation
• If heel varus corrects
  • Then the hind foot must be flexible and correcting plantar flexion of the first ray should lead to passive correction of the hind foot
• If hind foot varus does not correct
  • Then the hind foot is assumed to be rigid
  • This suggests correction of both forefoot and hind foot will be required to achieve a neutral balanced heel position

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Pathology

• Hindfoot Deformity

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Evidence

• Unknown

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See Also

• Ankle Pain
• Physical Exam Ankle
• Ankle Anatomy

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