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Pes cavus / varus deformity

Pes cavus / varus deformity

What is it?

This foot deformity is characterized by an abnormal longitudinal elevation of the arch or, in other words, an excessive upward curvature of the central part of the foot.

Causes

In the most patients it is an acquired deformity. Unlike flat feet, pes cavus always requires a comprehensive pediatric exam to determine whether there is a neurological problem, since this is a common cause of the deformity.

 Symptoms

During growth, especially during puberty, pes cavus becomes progressively more pronounced. In the early stages, usually before the age of 10 years, the most frequent symptoms are:

  • Metatarsalgia: pain in the anterior area of the sole of the foot, due to overloading, as the weight is distributed over a smaller support surface.
  • Plantar fasciitis: Inflammation due to excessive tension of the ‘cord’ that joins the front and back of the foot.
  • Repetitive sprains

While moderate-to-severe pes cavus is easily identifiable, mild or subclinical pes cavus may be more difficult to identify.

 

 

Treatment

Treatment initially includes muscle stretching exercices  and plantar orthoses (insoles) to improve support. Ir surgical treatment is requires, the UCA has developed minimally invasive techniques that are highly effective forthe tratment of this pathology in children.

                                                       

pie-cavo-varo-infantil-uca                   pie-cavo-varo-antes-y-después-operación-uca-infantil

Cavo-varus foot, mini-invasive correction.                                Before and after surgery.