The word "valgus" is spelled with the IPA phonetic transcription /ˈvælɡəs/, using the letter "v" to represent the voiced labiodental fricative sound, the letter "a" representing the short vowel sound, and the letter "g" representing the voiced velar stop. The "us" at the end of the word is also pronounced as the sound /əs/. Valgus is a medical term describing the outward angulation of a joint, commonly seen in conditions like turn-in toes or knock-knees.
Valgus is a medical term that describes a particular deformity or position of a body part, specifically in relation to its axis. It primarily refers to the deviation of a bone or joint away from the midline of the body or its natural alignment.
Valgus can manifest in different ways throughout the body, but it is most commonly used to describe the misalignment of the legs or knees. When referring to the lower limb, valgus describes a condition where the distal part of a limb deviates outward in relation to the proximal segment. This results in a pronounced gap or angle between the limb segments, typically causing the knees to come closer together while the ankles remain apart.
This deformity can be caused by a variety of factors, such as genetic predisposition, trauma, or underlying medical conditions like arthritis. It can lead to a wide range of symptoms, including pain, instability, difficulty walking, and an altered gait pattern.
Treatment for valgus depends on its severity and the underlying cause. Non-surgical options may include physiotherapy, braces, or orthotic devices to support and realign the affected limb. In more severe cases or when conservative measures fail, surgical interventions like osteotomy (bone realignment) or joint replacement may be necessary to correct the valgus deformity and restore functionality.
Overall, valgus is a medical term commonly used to describe a specific form of misalignment or deviation of a bone or joint away from the midline of the body, especially relating to the legs or knees.
1. A bow-legged person; more commonly, one with knock-knees, the terms genu valgum and genu varum having become mutally reversed in meaning. 2. Talipes valgus.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "valgus" is derived from Latin. It comes from the combination of the Latin words "valgus" meaning "bow-legged" or "knock-kneed", and "vulgus" meaning "general public" or "common people". The term was initially used in the medical field to describe a deformity in which the distal part of a limb, particularly the leg or toe, is bent or twisted away from the midline of the body.