A) Equinus 1. Longitudinal arch of foot extended dorsally
B) Planus 2. Longitudinal arch of foot flattened
C) Cavus 3. Foot in dorsiflexion
D) Calcaneus 4. Foot in plantar flexion
Appeared in: INI-CET EXAM -2025
Explanation
The correct option correctly pairs each foot deformity with its definition.
Equinus refers to a foot positioned in plantar flexion (toes pointing down), like a horse's foot.
Planus, or pes planus, is the medical term for a flat foot, where the longitudinal arch is flattened.
Cavus, or pes cavus, describes a foot with an abnormally high longitudinal arch.
Calcaneus refers to a deformity where the foot is fixed in dorsiflexion (toes pointing up), causing the person to walk on the heel.
Why Other Options Were Wrong
Option A: This option incorrectly matches Equinus with an extended arch (C-1), Cavus with dorsiflexion (D-3), and Calcaneus with plantar flexion (A-4).
Option B: This option incorrectly matches all the pairs. For example, it pairs Equinus (plantar flexion) with an extended arch (1).
Option C: This option incorrectly matches all the pairs. For example, it pairs Equinus (plantar flexion) with dorsiflexion (3).
Related Visual
Visual 1: Diagram - A set of four illustrations showing the lateral view of a normal foot alongside the Equinus, Planus, Cavus, and Calcaneus deformities to visually contrast the foot's position and arch height in each condition.
Clinical Relevance
Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Matching common foot deformities with their clinical descriptions as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Nurses must be able to identify these deformities during physical assessments as they can indicate underlying neurological or musculoskeletal conditions and affect a patient's mobility, balance, and risk for falls.
These conditions can cause significant pain, difficulty with ambulation, and problems with fitting footwear, requiring nursing interventions related to pain management, patient education on orthotics, and referrals to physiotherapy.
What if? - If a patient presents with Talipes Equinovarus (clubfoot), the nurse would expect to see a combination of deformities: Equinus (plantar flexion), Varus (inversion), and adduction of the foot, requiring specialized casting or surgical intervention, not just one isolated deformity.
How to Approach the Question
This is a 'Match the Following' question, which tests factual recall.
First, read the two lists to understand the terms (deformities) and the descriptions provided.
Focus on one term at a time from the first list. For example, start with 'Equinus' and recall its definition.
Scan the second list to find the most accurate description. 'Equinus' relates to a horse-like stance (walking on toes), which corresponds to plantar flexion (A → 4).
Repeat this process for each term: 'Planus' means flat (B → 2), 'Cavus' relates to a cave or high arch (C → 1), and 'Calcaneus' relates to the heel bone, where the person walks on the heel in dorsiflexion (D → 3).
After matching all pairs (A-4, B-2, C-1, D-3), locate the option in the answer choices that reflects this exact combination.
Concept Tested & Keywords
Concept Tested: Matching common foot deformities with their clinical descriptions.