Which physical finding is not usually associated with talipes equinovarus congenita (clubfoot)?

Which physical finding is not usually associated with talipes equinovarus congenita (clubfoot)?

• A. Contracture of the iliotibial bands
• B. Deep crease on medial border of foot
• C. Atrophy of calf muscles
• D. Small foot with limited dorsiflexion

Answer: (A)

Clubfoot deformity centers on the foot and ankle, with the hindfoot in varus, the ankle in equinus (limited dorsiflexion), the forefoot adducted, and a cavus arch. These changes come from tight posterior and medial structures and muscle imbalance, which explains why you might see a deep crease on the medial border of the foot, and why the foot may be small with reduced dorsiflexion and some calf muscle atrophy from disuse. A contracture of the iliotibial band, which runs along the lateral thigh, is not part of this foot–ankle deformity and would present with issues at the knee or hip rather than the foot, making it not typically associated with clubfoot.

Clubfoot deformity centers on the foot and ankle, with the hindfoot in varus, the ankle in equinus (limited dorsiflexion), the forefoot adducted, and a cavus arch. These changes come from tight posterior and medial structures and muscle imbalance, which explains why you might see a deep crease on the medial border of the foot, and why the foot may be small with reduced dorsiflexion and some calf muscle atrophy from disuse. A contracture of the iliotibial band, which runs along the lateral thigh, is not part of this foot–ankle deformity and would present with issues at the knee or hip rather than the foot, making it not typically associated with clubfoot.