Surgical reconstruction of the paralytic flaccid foot

Flaccid paralytic deformities are secondary to muscular imbalances. Conditions affecting the muscle itself or the neurogenic control of the muscle produce muscular imbalance. Once the origin of the flaccid paralytic foot is established, factors contributing to the deformity can be identified and addressed. It is imperative to understand the natural history of the underlying disorder that causes the deformity. The treatment of the patient with a flaccid paralysis depends primarily on a thorough knowledge and understanding of the normal function of the foot gait and secondarily on a thorough understanding of the natural history of the condition to be treated. A systematic, well-planned course of treatment, either surgical or nonsurgical, needs to be developed for each patient.