Glossary term
Equinus contracture (Ankle equinus)
A condition in which the ankle becomes restricted, causing the foot to point downward.
Updated 2026-02-241 alias3 sourcesUsed across articles and safety pages
Definition
A condition in which the ankle joint becomes restricted in dorsiflexion (upward movement), resulting in the foot pointing downward. In limb lengthening, it develops as the calf muscles and Achilles tendon are progressively stretched during tibia distraction.
Aliases
ankle equinus
Updated 2026-02-24
Sources
- Paley D. Problems, obstacles, and complications of limb lengthening by the Ilizarov technique. Clin Orthop Relat Res. 1990;(250):81–104.other_publicAccessed 2026-02-24
- Marwan Y, Cohen D, Alotaibi M, Addar A, Bernstein M, Hamdy R. Cosmetic stature lengthening: systematic review of outcomes and complications. Bone Joint Res. 2020;9(7):341–350.other_publicAccessed 2026-02-24
- Giorgino R, Cornacchini J, Sillmann YM, et al. Aesthetic lower limb lengthening techniques: a systematic review of efficacy, complications, and patient satisfaction. J Orthop Surg Res. 2025;20(1):415.other_publicAccessed 2026-02-24
Informational only. Not medical advice.