What problems can cavovarus foot cause?

In this interview, esteemed consultant paediatric orthopaedic surgeon, Mr Sam Weston-Simons, explains exactly what cavovarus foot is and what complications it can lead to. The London-based surgeon discusses whether it is hereditary, if treatment is necessary, and when surgery should be considered. 

What is cavovarus foot?

It is a description of how the foot changes with an imbalance between the muscles outside the foot and the muscles within the foot. If you look at a normal-shaped foot, it will tend to have a small arch in the middle, and the heel will be pointing a little bit towards the outside.

In a cavovarus foot, the arch becomes significantly more pronounced, and the heel comes towards the middle point of the foot. This can affect one’s quality of life significantly.

What problems can cavovarus foot cause?

It can cause a multitude of problems, depending on the severity of the deformity. Initially, symptoms may be related to day-to-day pain, and recurrent sprains due to the instability within the foot.

As a result of the imbalance, children in particular can suffer from these symptoms, and will struggle to run and take part in sports. They will also struggle to find comfortable and appropriate footwear.

Is it genetic?

Most cavovarus feet are bilateral, and because of this, there is a genetic component to it. A genetic inheritance analysis will be performed when diagnosing a cavovarus foot. As well as this, the spinal cord will be looked at, as there may be a number of neurological abnormalities that can also cause this foot deformity.

Is treatment always required?

Treatment is not always required. Ultimately, the initial management of the condition is to provide an underlying diagnosis for the cause. Once this is found, we can offer various treatment options, which can include the following supportive measures:

• orthotics within the shoes
• making specific shoes to accommodate the foot

When is surgery for cavovarus foot indicated?

The only time that surgery is indicated is when children are not managing day-to-day activities with these supportive measures that have been mentioned above.

If you are worried about your child’s feet, make sure you book a consultation with Mr Sam Weston-Simons today via his Top Doctors profile.