The calcaneocavus foot is almost always the result of a neural disorder
and subsequent weakness of the triceps surae muscles. It is inexorably
progressive, always disabling, and refractory to bracing. Therefore,
treatment is directed toward the surgical correction of any existing
deformity and the restoration of muscle balance. We developed a treatment
approach based on goals and requirements that must be individualized
according to the underlying neural disorder, the exact nature of the muscle
imbalance, the degree of bone deformity, and the skeletal age of the
patient. Nineteen calcaneocavus feet have been treated at our institution
since 1958, with follow-up averaging seven and three-quarters years. The
objective evaluation of the correction obtained was determined from a ratio
computed by measurements on radiographs. All feet were improved according
to this raio, although three were not corrected as well as was desired. An
effort also was made to establish the amount of functional improvement as
it was reflected in improved gait and push-off. These were largely
subjective determinations, however, and although all patients demonstrated
improved function, the amount of improvement was difficult to quantitate
and none had normal function. There was a substatially consistent
relationship between the improved objective and subjective result
evaluations.