valgo

Valgo is a medical term used in orthopedics to describe outward angulation or deviation of a limb segment away from the midline of the body. It is derived from the Latin valgus, and it is often contrasted with varus, which refers to inward angulation. The word is typically used as part of a compound descriptor (for example, genu valgum or cubitus valgus) to specify the direction of a deformity at a joint or bone segment.

Common uses and contexts include conditions affecting the knee, hip, elbow, and foot. Genu valgum describes knock-knee alignment where the knees angle toward each other, while coxa valga refers to an increased angle between the femoral neck and shaft. Planovalgus indicates a combination of flatfoot with outwardly angulated hindfoot, and cubitus valgus denotes outward angulation of the forearm at the elbow. The term helps clinicians communicate the deformity’s orientation, guide imaging assessment, and inform treatment planning.

Assessment and management typically involve physical examination and imaging to determine the degree and progression of the deformity. Etiologies can be congenital, developmental, post-traumatic, or related to neuromuscular conditions. Treatment ranges from observation and physical therapy or orthotic devices for mild or asymptomatic cases to surgical realignment or osteotomy for severe or function-limiting deformities. Early intervention can influence joint alignment, gait, and long-term joint health.

Valgo is primarily a descriptive term in medical usage rather than the name of a standalone entity. In clinical language, it appears in combination with the affected joint or bone to specify outward angulation.