Cavovarus foot deformity — a condition where the arch of the foot is unusually high and the heel turns inward — can lead to significant pain, instability, and difficulty walking. It may develop from neurological conditions, trauma, or structural imbalances in the foot.

When orthotics, physiotherapy, or bracing no longer provide sufficient relief, surgical reconstruction can correct the deformity, rebalance the foot, and restore more natural movement.

Mr. Turab Syed, an experienced consultant orthopaedic surgeon specialising in foot and ankle surgery, performs cavovarus complex foot reconstruction at Kings Park Hospital in Stirling and The Lanarkshire Clinic in Hamilton. This page explains the condition, how surgery helps, and what to expect from treatment with Mr. Syed.

What is cavovarus foot deformity?

A cavovarus foot has a high arch (cavus) combined with heel inversion (varus). This results in uneven weight distribution — placing excess pressure on the outer edge of the foot, ankle, and smaller toes.

Common causes include:

• Neuromuscular conditions, such as Charcot–Marie–Tooth disease or polio.
• Previous fractures or trauma affecting bone alignment.
• Arthritis or tendon imbalance.
• Congenital (present from birth) foot deformities.

Over time, the abnormal alignment can cause pain, instability, calluses, recurrent ankle sprains, and difficulty finding comfortable footwear.

Who can benefit from cavovarus foot reconstruction?

You may be a candidate for surgery if you:

• Have persistent pain and instability despite orthotics or physiotherapy.
• Experience frequent ankle sprains or difficulty walking.
• Have progressive deformity or stiffness.
• Show significant imbalance or abnormal wear on X-rays or gait analysis.

Mr. Syed performs a thorough clinical and radiological assessment, often using X-rays, CT, or MRI scans, to determine the exact cause and extent of deformity.

Cavovarus complex foot reconstruction in Stirling & Hamilton: The procedure

Pre-operative preparation

Before surgery, Mr. Syed and his team ensure you are fully prepared and informed. This includes:

• A detailed consultation and review of medical history.
• X-rays and imaging to map bone and tendon alignment.
• Pre-operative health checks and blood tests.
• Guidance on fasting and medication adjustment before surgery.

The surgery itself

Cavovarus reconstruction is a complex, highly individualised procedure, tailored to the specific cause and severity of deformity. It may involve:

• Soft tissue release – lengthening or transferring tight tendons (often the plantar fascia, peroneus longus, or tibialis posterior).
• Osteotomy – reshaping or realigning bones of the heel, midfoot, or forefoot to restore proper balance.
• Tendon transfer – repositioning tendons to rebalance muscle forces across the foot.
• Joint fusion (arthrodesis) – stabilising joints in severe or rigid deformities.

The goal is to achieve a plantigrade (flat, balanced) foot, restoring pain-free walking and stability.

Mr. Syed performs these operations at:

• Kings Park Hospital, Stirling (Polmaise Rd, FK7 9JH) – advanced orthopaedic theatres and post-operative support.
• The Lanarkshire Clinic, Hamilton (Cadzow Avenue, ML3 0FT) – modern facilities providing expert, patient-centred care.

Duration and post-operative care

Surgery typically takes 2–3 hours, depending on complexity. Patients usually stay in hospital overnight.

Initial aftercare includes:

• Immobilisation in a plaster cast or boot.
• Pain management and limb elevation to reduce swelling.
• Non-weight-bearing with crutches for the first 6–8 weeks.

Recovery and aftercare

Recovery from cavovarus foot reconstruction is gradual and carefully monitored:

• 0–6 weeks: Non-weight-bearing in cast or boot.
• 6–12 weeks: Gradual progression to partial weight-bearing as X-rays confirm healing.
• 3–6 months: Physiotherapy begins to restore flexibility and strength.
• 6–12 months: Full function regained, with improved alignment and stability.

Physiotherapy plays a vital role in retraining gait and preventing recurrence.

Risks and complications

As with any major foot surgery, risks include:

• Infection or delayed wound healing.
• Nerve irritation or numbness.
• Non-union (incomplete bone healing).
• Over- or under-correction of deformity.
• Blood clots (rare).

Mr. Syed uses advanced techniques and precise surgical planning to minimise these risks and ensure a safe recovery.

Why choose Mr. Turab Syed in Stirling & Hamilton?

• Subspecialist in complex foot and ankle reconstruction, with fellowship training and years of dedicated experience.
• Tailored, patient-specific approach using the latest surgical planning and imaging.
• Commitment to long-term outcomes, with careful follow-up and rehabilitation support.
• Convenient access to private hospitals in Stirling and Hamilton for consultation and surgery.

FAQs

Is cavovarus reconstruction painful?
Discomfort is expected in the early phase, but it is well controlled with medication. Long-term, patients usually experience significant pain relief.

How long before I can walk again?
Most patients begin partial weight-bearing at around 6–8 weeks, with full walking restored by 3–6 months.

Will I be able to wear normal shoes again?
Yes. Once the foot has healed and alignment is restored, most patients comfortably return to normal footwear.

Is the surgery suitable for both feet?
If both feet are affected, they are usually treated separately to allow safe recovery.

Book your consultation

If foot deformity, instability, or chronic pain is affecting your mobility, cavovarus foot reconstruction with Mr. Turab Syed can help restore alignment and confidence.

Book a consultation today at Kings Park Hospital in Stirling or The Lanarkshire Clinic in Hamilton to discuss your personalised treatment options.