Dictionary > Varus

Varus

Definition
adjective
Of, pertaining to, or relating to a deformity wherein the distal segment of a bone or a joint (especially of a limb) is turned inwards towards the mid-line
Supplement
Varus is a medical term used to denote to the inward angulation of the distal segment of a bone or a joint. It is used as opposed to valgus, which denotes outward angulation. Varus is a Latin term meaning bent inward whereas valgus is a Latin that denotes being bent outward.
Pes varus is an example of a varus deformity. It is characterized by the inward turning of the heel or the inversion of the foot. In contrast, pes valgus is a deformity characterized by the outward turning of the heel or the inversion of the foot.
Another example is the coxa vara, which is a varus deformity involving the hip. The angle between the head and the shaft of the femur is reduced, resulting in a limp.1
Another is genu varum. From the Latin genu meaning knee, this deformity results when the tibia is turned inward with respect to the femur and the result is a bowlegged appearance.
Word origin: Latin varus (bent inward)
Compare:

See also:

  • clubfoot
  • Related term(s):

    Reference(s):

    1 Congenital Coxa Vara. Retrieved from http://emedicine.medscape.com/article/1259556-overview.


    You will also like...

    Flowers and tiny fruits of the pomegranate plant
    Fruits, Flowers, and Seeds

    This tutorial deals with the structure and function of flowers, fruits, and seeds. Also included here are the types of f..

    Plant biology
    Plant Biology

    Plantlife can be studied at a variety of levels, from the molecular, genetic and biochemical level through organelles, c..

    An artistic depiction of a human embryo
    Growth and Development of a Human Baby

    Upon fertilization, a zygote forms and develops into an embryo. This tutorial elaborates on the growth and development f..

    Energy pyramid
    Freshwater Community Energy Relationships – Producers & Consumers

    This tutorial looks at the relationship between organisms. It also explores how energy is passed on in the food chain an..

    Control of body movement
    Control of Body Movement

    Some of the body movements can be controlled at will, others cannot. The body has a motor program, which is the pattern ..

    Psychiatry and mental disorders
    Psychiatry & Mental Disorders

    Different mental disorders are described here. Read this tutorial to get an overview of schizophrenia, affective mood di..

    Related Articles...

    No related articles found

    See all Related Topics