Cavus foot surgical correction in children: soft tissue releases, osteotomies, neurological assessment. Dr. Priano, Milan.
Surgical correction for symptomatic high-arched feet
Learn about this condition →Release of the tight plantar fascia and other soft tissue structures contributing to the deformity. Often includes tendon transfers for muscle rebalancing.
Flexible cavus foot with symptoms not responding to orthotics and physical therapy.
Cast or boot often for 4-6 weeks, with loading and rehabilitation prescribed according to associated procedures. Orthotics when indicated.
Correction of hindfoot varus through a wedge osteotomy of the calcaneus to restore proper alignment.
Rigid hindfoot varus component of cavus deformity.
Non-weight-bearing protection in a cast often lasts about 6 weeks; the surgeon authorises progression according to stability and healing. A 3-4-month recovery is an approximate reference, not guaranteed clearance for sport.
Elevation of the first metatarsal to reduce forefoot equinus and improve weight distribution.
Plantarflexed first ray contributing to cavus posture.
Cast or boot often for 4-6 weeks. Amount and progression of loading depend on fixation, healing and associated procedures: absence of pain alone does not authorise weight bearing.
Cavus foot correction often requires multiple procedures addressing different components of the deformity. A thorough neurological evaluation is essential before surgery to identify any underlying cause (Charcot-Marie-Tooth, etc.).
Note: This is an indicative pathway, personalised after surgery. Some elements are relatively stable (goal of the procedure, approximate hospital stay, presence of a cast or brace); others depend on the individual case (weight bearing, range of motion, imaging, sport, hardware removal, follow-up intervals) and on the surgical technique chosen.
Day-surgery to 1 night depending on procedure complexity.
Early weeks: cast or boot and permitted loading according to the procedure-specific prescription. About 4-6 weeks is an approximate reference; do not progress from non-weight bearing independently.
Around 6-8 weeks, if healing permits, transition to footwear and start or progression of physiotherapy may be possible. Orthotics as indicated.
In the following months: progressive strengthening and balance within authorised loading and motion. Adjust aids if needed.
The 3-4-month reference must be adapted to the procedures and healing. Gradual return requires union of any osteotomies and team assessment of pain, strength, balance and function.
Follow-ups at 2 weeks, 6 weeks, 3 months, 6 months, 1 year. Long-term if neurological condition present.
Undercorrection/overcorrection, recurrence (especially if neurological cause), wound healing issues, ankle instability.
Causes, diagnosis, conservative options and when surgery is considered.
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