Treatment of Ankle Instability with an Associated Cavus Deformity

A cavovarus foot is a frequently encountered but underestimated cause of chronic ankle instability. A high index of clinical suspicion for abnormal foot shape and biomechanics should be maintained when treating patients with ankle instability. Management of ankle instability in the presence of cavovarus must address the malalignment. Correction of foot shape should be combined with formal ligamentous repair. Appropriate rehabilitation and sensorimotor retraining should be included in all treatment programs. Without restoration of joint-protective function, osteoarthritis is not uncommon.