CALCANEAL VALGUS

Overview and Facts

Calcaneal valgus is a disorder that arises in newborns due to their position within the womb. It usually only affects one side. The forefoot is abducted and dorsiflexed while the heel is valgus. The ankle’s range of motion is restricted. As a result of the foot posture, an external tibial torsion may arise and an externally rotating tibia in rare circumstances. With greater tension in the ipsilateral peroneus longus muscles and iliotibial band and reduced ipsilateral sacroiliac mechanics, the fibular head may be posterior. Muscular deconditioning and aberrant firing patterns are common, as they are with other congenital abnormalities. Rehab is required for the plantar flexor and inversion muscles.

Types and Symptoms

SYMPTOMS

The calcaneal valgus foot is visible from birth. The foot is generally partly adjusted to be brought to the “normal” ankle position of 90 degrees.It may be bilateral or unilateral, and it has been connected to a variety of illnesses, including:

  • The tibia bows posteriorly and medially (the leg is curved and shorter in the affected site)
  • Vertical talus (talus bone is positioned incorrect, causing the entire foot to look deformed),
  • Muscular imbalance or nerve injury

Diagnosis & Medications

DIAGNOSIS

Whereas most children with calcaneal valgus grow out of the deformity, it is crucial to get your kid examined by a skilled doctor to rule out more severe diseases.

Pediatricians and pediatric orthopedic doctors may examine children with calcaneal valgus foot. The doctor will take:

  • Comprehensive medical record 
  • Physical screening
  • Visual evaluation

Clinicians will inquire whether anybody else in your family is afflicted, search for additional malformations, and thoroughly evaluate your kid from head to toe.

  • X-rays are a kind of radiography that produces pictures of bones.
  • Ultrasound is often used to examine a baby’s hips and spine before they ossify (complete development).

TREATMENT

Treatment without surgery for  calcaneal valgus:

  • Plantarflexion-inversion. Casting may be employed if a spontaneous resolution is not apparent during the first few months of life.
  • Ankle-foot orthotics. Help manage a child’s foot when paralytic disorders cause a muscular imbalance.
  • A technology that reliably affects the growth, development, or ultimate adult form of a flexible flat foot has yet to be produced.

Surgical Intervention:

  • Tendon transfer . To stabilize the hindfoot.
  • Calcaneal elongation osteotomy. Beneficial for older children
  • Triple arthrodesis. Necessary in youngsters above 10 years old

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