Coxa valga

Coxa Valga

Diagram showing the angles of the femur, including coxa valga.

Coxa valga is a deformity of the hip joint where the angle formed between the head and neck of the femur and its shaft is increased, typically above 135 degrees. This condition can affect the biomechanics of the hip and lead to various clinical symptoms.

Anatomy and Pathophysiology

The normal angle between the head and neck of the femur and its shaft, known as the femoral neck-shaft angle, is approximately 120 to 135 degrees. In coxa valga, this angle is increased, which can alter the distribution of weight and stress across the hip joint. This condition can be congenital or acquired and is often associated with other skeletal abnormalities.

Causes

Coxa valga can be caused by several factors, including:

• Congenital hip dysplasia
• Neuromuscular disorders such as cerebral palsy
• Rickets or other metabolic bone diseases
• Trauma or injury to the hip joint

Clinical Presentation

Patients with coxa valga may present with:

• Hip pain
• Limping
• Limited range of motion in the hip joint
• Leg length discrepancy

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of coxa valga is typically made through clinical examination and confirmed with imaging studies such as X-rays or MRI. The increased femoral neck-shaft angle is clearly visible on these images.

Treatment

Treatment options for coxa valga depend on the severity of the condition and the presence of symptoms. They may include:

• Physical therapy to improve range of motion and strengthen surrounding muscles
• Orthotic devices to support the hip joint
• Surgical intervention, such as osteotomy, to correct the angle of the femur

Prognosis

The prognosis for individuals with coxa valga varies. Mild cases may not require treatment and have a good prognosis, while more severe cases may lead to complications such as osteoarthritis if not properly managed.

Related Pages

• Coxa vara
• Hip dysplasia
• Femoral neck fracture