Foot Deformities Listed by Age Group
Medically reviewed by Adam H. Kaplan, DPM
Foot deformities are a common health condition that can be congenital (present at birth) or acquired from external factors. They can affect the foot joints and bones, causing pain and physical deformities.
This article will discuss the different types of foot deformities based on age, location, and what causes each type.
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Types of Foot Deformities
There are numerous types of foot deformities. Some are mild and will resolve on their own, whereas others will need treatment. Below is a list of foot deformities categorized by when they occur: congenital, childhood and adult, and adult only.
Congenital
The following are foot deformities that are present from birth:
Metatarsus adductus: Causes the toes and front of the foot to curve inward towards the opposite foot. It can be flexible and straightened out by hand or non-flexible and unable to be straightened out. It usually corrects itself by 6 to 12 months of age. The need for surgery is rare, but it can straighten the foot if there are problems.
Clubfoot: This is the same as the metatarsus adductus, with toes pointing down and the bottom of the foot facing the other foot. It is generally diagnosed during a prenatal ultrasound and is treated with a series of cast foot surgery.
Calcanevalgus: Occurs when the talus (a bone of the foot and ankle) is dislocated, making the top of the foot touch the shin. The foot may not be able to be pushed completely down. It typically gets better without treatment over a couple of months. Sometimes, casting is used to bend the foot back into shape, with surgical treatment as a last resort.
Congenital vertical talus: Causes the foot to bend upwards and to the outside. It is stiff and will get better on its own. Treatment is done with casting and surgery.
In Children and Adults
The following are foot deformities that are common in children and adults:
Pes Planovalgus: Also known as flat feet, this foot deformity is common and generally develops during adolescence. It is characterized by a flattened middle section of the foot, the inside of the ankle rolling inward, and the heel rolled out from underneath the ankle.
Cavovarus foot: This deformity generally can occur with a neurologic condition or after a neurological injury caused by trauma. It is characterized by a high arch and a heel that is slanted inward.
Pronated foot: When a foot is pronated, it means the ankle is turning inward. This can start in children but does not tend to cause problems until someone is in their 30s or 40s.
Primarily in Adults
The following are foot deformities that occur primarily in adults:
Bunion: Also called hallux valgus, it causes a bump inside the foot where the big toe meets the foot. It is caused when pressure on the big toe pushes it towards the other toes and eventually moves, causing the bunion. It is more common in women than men, likely due to tighter shoes worn by women.
Claw toe: Caused by nerve damage from conditions like diabetes or alcoholism. These conditions can weaken foot muscles, resulting in the toes bending down at the middle joints towards the bottom of the foot. This causes painful calluses, usually on the top of the toe.
Hammer toe: A hammer toe occurs when the middle joint of the toe is pushed upward. The joint can form a corn and rub against shoes. If caught early, surgery can be avoided.
High arch: A high arch is when the arch of the foot is higher than normal. This forces more pressure on the ball of the foot and can lead to pain, calluses, as well as ligament issues, and arthritis. It's caused by nerve problems and can lead to ankle injuries or claw foot, but some people are born with it.
Splay foot: In this condition, the metatarsals spread out, and the foot becomes wider. This places additional pressure on the front of the foot and is painful. Those with splay foot are more likely to develop bunions.
Equinus foot: Causes the ball of the foot and toes to point downward, preventing the heel from lowering to the floor. Those affected with the condition will only walk on the front and middle areas of the foot. The calf muscle may be too short, causing the foot deformity, which may have happened after a brain injury or being bedridden for a long time.
Foot Deformities Associated With Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune, chronic condition that affects the joints throughout the body. The bones and joints in the feet can change due to the condition causing foot deformities. Flat feet, bunions, and claw toes are deformities commonly seen in those with RA.
Effects of Different Foot Deformities
Foot deformities can have extensive effects on someone's life. Emotionally, the physical foot changes can cause distress, lead someone to cover their feet from self-consciousness, and they may avoid other people. Physically, foot deformities lead to difficulty walking, pain, inability to perform daily activities, and more.
Symptoms That Require Medical Attention
When someone has a foot deformity, it can affect multiple areas of their life. Some deformities can be treated at home, whereas others need medical attention. Below are symptoms that would require medical attention from a healthcare provider:
Pain that doesn't go away or worsens
Swelling
When to See a Podiatrist
A podiatrist is a healthcare provider who specializes in conditions affecting feet and ankles. Someone should see a podiatrist when they have a foot condition or problem. Whether the problem is new or has been going on for a while, a podiatrist can help guide treatment and, if necessary, refer the person to another healthcare provider.
Summary
Foot deformities are conditions that can be present at birth (congenital) or develop as a child or an adult. There are several types of foot deformities, including club foot, bunions, and hammer toe. It's important to see a healthcare provider for an evaluation and proper treatment. If not treated properly, foot deformities can worsen, causing more pain.
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