The appearance of the foot in babies with congenital vertical talus is a flat foot with a "rocker-bottom" sole. One distinguishing characteristic of congenital vertical talus is that the foot is rigid, and cannot be manually corrected to normal. About 60% of babies with congenital vertical talus have associated conditions such as arthrogryposis or myelomeningocele.
What is the treatment of congenital vertical talus?
The treatment of congenital vertical talus usually consists of manipulation and casting to stretch the tight foot. Prior to 2 years of age, a surgery is performed to release the tight tissues that are preventing the normal foot position. Newer, less-invasive surgical techniques are showing promising results as well.
Sources:
Sankar WN, Weiss J, Skaggs DL. "Orthopaedic Conditions in the Newborn"J Am Acad Orthop Surg, Vol 17, No 2, February 2009, 112-122.
