The calcaneovalgus foot is one of several common deformities found at birth. It is often referred to as “flexible flatfoot.” Both the forefoot and hind foot are in dorsiflexion (pointing upward) and the forefoot is also pointed laterally (outward). The condition originates in the tibiotalar joint.
The condition is more common in firstborn children of younger mothers and believed to be caused by in-utero packing. Females are affected more often than males, and this deformity can be unilateral or bilateral. It occurs in about 5 percent of all newborns and is associated with external rotation of the calcaneous, an overstretched Achilles tendon, and tight anterior leg musculature.
In most cases, correction can be achieved by passive stretching exercises – manipulating the heel into varus while the forefoot is planter flexed and adducted – by the age of 4 months. Serial casting can be implemented in cases where the passive stretching does not correct the deformity.
Other names or similar foot conditions:
- Myelodysplasia
- Arthrogryposis
- Flexible flatfoot
Symptoms:
- Forefoot and hind foot in dorsiflexion (pointing upward) and forefoot in abduction (pointing outward)
Signs to look for:
- Forefoot and hind foot in dorsiflexion (pointing upward) and forefoot in abduction (pointing outward)
Possible Causes:
- In-utero packing
- Seen mostly in the first born child of young mothers
Goals:
- Stretch forefoot and hind foot into neutral
How We Help:
Other:
This condition usually resolves on its own
Activities:
- Passive stretching for infants
- Serial casting if the stretching is not successful
- Ankle-foot bracing if child is older and this has not resolved
This information does not constitute a diagnosis of your condition and does not take the place of a doctor’s care. The information has been compiled from sources available to the general public and referenced below. Copyright 2005-2010 Carole Romig
Sources Image: aafp.org Text: D. Janisse, CPed, Editor, Introduction to Pedorthics, Health-Nexus.org, aafp.org, Wheelessonline.com