In orthopedics, a valgus deformity is a term for the outward angulation of the distal segment of a bone or joint. The opposite of valgus is called varus.

The terms varus and valgus always refer to the direction that the distal segment of the joint points.

For a discussion of the etymology of these words, see the entry under varus.

Examples

• Hip: coxa valga (from Latin cox = hip) — the shaft of the femur is bent outward in respect to the neck of the femur, causing bowleggedness.
• Knee: genu valgus (from Latin genu = knee) — the tibia is turned outward in relation to the femur, resulting in a knock-kneed appearance.
• Ankle: talipes valgus (from Latin talus = ankle and pes = foot) — outward turning of the heel, resulting in clubfoot with the person walking on the inner part of the foot.
• Toe: hallux valgus (Latin hallux = big toe) — outward deviation of the big toe toward the second toe.
• Elbows: cubitus valgus (Latin cubitus = elbow) — turned-out elbows

See also

• varus deformity

Orthopedics