Diagnosis and Treatment of Cavus Foot / 대한족부족관절학회지

ABSTRACT

The cavus foot is a deformity characterized by an elevated medial longitudinal arch and a hindfoot varus with plantarflexed 1st ray. The etiology of cavus foot is usually related to neuromuscular disease or idiopathic cause. Thorough clinical and radiographic evaluation is required for differentiating etiology of the cavus. Most cases of cavus foot are stable and slowly progressive deformities which can initially be managed with conservative treatment including orthoses and physical therapies. Determining whether the deformity is flexible or rigid, the apex of the deformity and any muscle imbalances in foot and ankle is important for achievement of an adequately balanced plantigrade foot. Treatment should include systematic preoperative planning for selection of appropriate procedures for maintaining a functional and flexible foot with combinations of soft-tissue release, osteotomy, tendon transfer, and arthrodesis.