Equinus Deformity
Equinus deformity is when the ankle remains in an excessive plantar flexion position (bent down). This leads to tiptoe walking in the gait pattern. Among the most common causes:
- Cerebral palsy
- Congenital muscle shortness (gastrocnemius-soleus)
- Nerve paralysis is involved.
In the long term, equinus deformity leads to imbalance in the leg muscles, lack of heel pressure and loss of balance.
Treatment steps
- Physical therapy
- AFO (ankle foot orthoses)
- Botulinum toxin injections (Botox)
- Surgical lengthening of the Achilles tendon or selective muscle release
Early diagnosis is essential to correct the walking pattern and improve shoe fit in children.
