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Updated: May 17, 2026
08:25
Evaluating the Function of the Foot Core System in the Elderly
Published on: March 11, 2022
Cavus foot, from neonates to adolescents
1Paris Descartes University, Necker-Sick Children Hospital (AP-HP), 149, rue de Sèvres, Paris 75015, France. p.wicart@nck.aphp.fr
Orthopaedics & Traumatology, Surgery & Research : OTSR
|October 27, 2012
Summary
Pes cavus, a high foot arch, can be normal or a deformity. Distinguishing direct pes cavus from pes cavovarus is crucial for appropriate treatment, especially in neurological conditions.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedics
- Podiatry
- Neurology
Background:
- Pes cavus, or high arch, presents as a normal variant or a component of foot deformity.
- Differentiating direct pes cavus from pes cavovarus is clinically significant.
- Neurological diseases are common causes of posterior pes cavus.
Purpose of the Study:
- To clarify the distinctions between direct pes cavus and pes cavovarus.
- To outline the etiology and management of these foot deformities.
- To provide guidance on appropriate treatment strategies.
Main Methods:
- Review of clinical definitions and classifications of pes cavus and pes cavovarus.
- Analysis of etiological factors, particularly neurological involvement.
- Evaluation of treatment outcomes for conservative and surgical interventions.
Main Results:
- Direct pes cavus involves sagittal plane deformity; pes cavovarus is a 3D deformity of the calcaneopedal unit.
- Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease is a common cause of pes cavovarus due to intrinsic foot muscle palsy.
- Conservative orthotic treatment can prevent childhood progression; extra-articular surgery is an option for inadequate response.
Conclusions:
- Accurate diagnosis distinguishing pes cavus from pes cavovarus is essential.
- Conservative management is preferred for pes cavovarus in children.
- Avoid triple arthrodesis due to accelerated osteoarthritis; muscle transfers lack proven efficacy.
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