Fig. 39

Methods that can be used to monitor progression of varus deformity without repeated radiologic studies (which, however, are needed if the bowing is sufficiently severe that intervention is being considered). a–c Measurements between the knees, mid-tibiae and medial malleoli with the legs straight and at rest and the feet together; d Measurement of maximal varus angle by placing the goniometer at the approximate apex of the tibial bow; e Measuring of thigh-foot angle, that is, the angle made by the longitudinal axis of the thigh and the longitudinal axis of the foot when the foot is in its neutral position; this assesses the presence of and severity of internal tibial torsion; f Rough assessment of whether the three joints of the leg are in plumb