I understand that forefoot valgus will cause rearfoot varus. Now, my Q is, is this a bodily compensation? Also, when we do we need to add a wedge and how do we know if we need to add in forefoot or rear foot? What happens when there is rearfoor valgus? Thnx

The forefoot and hind foot move opposite to each other. A medial wedge is recommended for forefoot varus to prevent any kind of compensation at the hind foot which eventually will affect the gait and other joints of the lower limb – in other words, an eventual body compensation.

Forefoot varus leads to Pronation of the STJ during midstance and terminal stance to allow the first metatarsal to contact the ground. When the foot goes into pronation, it has to go down on the lateral side. A medial wedge will raise the medial side so the food doesn’t have to fall too much into pronation – the wedge allows the foot to touch the ground sooner.

Rear foot valgus leads to calcaneal eversion which in turn causes pronation, talar Internal rotation (IR), tibial IR, genu valgum, femoral IR, coxa vara at the hip with resultant anteversion and increased Q angle.