varus
Definition
Noun: A condition or deformity in which a limb, or a segment of a limb, is abnormally turned or bent inward toward the midline of the body.
Usage
The term "varus" is a medical term used primarily in orthopedics and podiatry to describe a specific type of angular deformity of a joint. It is often part of a compound term specifying the affected joint.
Examples
- The X-ray confirmed a varus deformity of the knee, indicating osteoarthritis.
- Varus of the hindfoot can contribute to an unstable gait.
- The condition, known as hallux varus, involves the big toe turning inward.
Advanced Usage
- In Diagnosis: The term is used to classify the direction of malalignment. It is the opposite of "valgus," which denotes an outward angulation.
- A varus stress test is performed to assess the stability of the knee's medial collateral ligament.
- In Specification: It is almost always combined with the name of the affected bone or joint to form a precise clinical term (e.g., , ).
Variants and Related Words
- Valgus (noun): The opposite condition, where a limb is bent outward.
- Genu Varum (noun): The technical term for "bow-leggedness," a varus deformity at the knee.
- Cubitus Varus (noun): A varus deformity at the elbow, often a sequela of a fracture.
- Hallux Varus (noun): A deformity of the big toe where it angles inward toward the other toes.
- Varus (adjective): Used attributively to describe the deformity or a force applied to cause it (e.g., , ).
Synonyms
- Inward angulation
- Adduction deformity (in specific contexts)
Notes on Meaning
The core meaning of "varus" is specifically the inward angulation of the distal segment of a bone or joint relative to the proximal segment. It does not describe a general inward rotation of an entire limb.
Noun
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a deformity in which part of a limb is turned inward to an abnormal degree
