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 valgus (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 from the second toe.
The radiographic appearance and therefore the pathogenesis of juvenile hallux valgus may be different because the deformity tends to be one of joint angulation manifested by an increase in the DMAA as opposed to true joint instability.
Haines RW, McDougall A: The anatomy of hallux valgus.
Kilmartin TE, Wallace WA: The significance of pes planus in juvenile hallux valgus.
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