Club Foot

Evidence 

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK551574/ 

Alasdair Barrie; Matthew A. Varacallo. 

Clubfoot (talipes equinovarus) is a congenital deformity involving the foot, otherwise known as congenital talipes equinovarus. It is among the most common congenital deformities and appears with varying degrees and severity of predictable contractures manifesting with four main deformities:  

• Midfoot cavus 

• Forefoot adductus 

• Heel/hindfoot varus 

• Hindfoot equinus

Clubfoot demonstrates excellent success rates in correction and overall patient outcomes if recognized early and treated appropriately.  Thus, its recognition and diagnosis early on in the infant's life facilitate an ideal outcome long-term. 

Education 

Clubfoot is a condition where a baby’s foot is turned inward or downward at birth. It can affect one or both feet and occurs because the tendons connecting the muscles to the bones in the foot are shorter than usual. While the exact cause is not always known, it may be due to genetic factors, limited space in the womb, or a combination of both. 

Diagnosis and Treatment 

Clubfoot is usually diagnosed at birth or sometimes detected during prenatal ultrasounds. Early intervention is key to ensuring the best possible outcomes. Treatment generally begins in the first few weeks of life and follows a structured plan to gradually correct the foot’s position. 

The most common treatment method is the Ponseti method, which involves: 

• Gentle Manipulation and Casting – A specialist carefully moves the baby’s foot into a more correct position and applies a plaster cast. This process is repeated weekly for about 6–8 weeks. 

• Achilles Tendon Release – If needed, a minor procedure may be done to lengthen the Achilles tendon to allow for better movement. 

• Bracing – Once the foot is positioned correctly, a special brace (boots and bar) is worn to maintain alignment. Initially, the brace is worn full-time for a few months, then at night and during naps for several years. 

Surgical treatment is less common and is only required if non-surgical methods do not fully correct the condition. 

Caring for Your Baby During Treatment 

• Keep casts dry and check for any signs of irritation or swelling. For bracing, follow the recommended schedule strictly to prevent relapse. 

• Regularly check your baby’s skin for redness or pressure marks from the brace and adjust as needed. 

• Babies may be fussy during the adjustment period. Gentle massage, skin-to-skin contact and soothing techniques can help them feel more comfortable. 

Empowerment 

With proper treatment, most children with clubfoot grow up to walk, run, and play like their peers. Some children may have a slight difference in foot size or calf muscle shape, but this does not usually affect their mobility. Regular follow-ups with a specialist will ensure that your child’s foot develops correctly. 

Useful Links 

Royal Children's Hospital, Victoria 

https://www.rch.org.au/uploadedFiles/Main/Content/ortho/factsheets/PONSETi_NON_RCH.pdf 

Raising Children 

https://raisingchildren.net.au/guides/a-z-health-reference/clubfoot-turned-foot 

Aussie Club Foot Kids 

https://clubfootaustralia.com/ 

Through the unexpected 

https://throughtheunexpected.org.au/ 

Panda - Perinatal Anxiety & Depression Australia 

https://panda.org.au/ 

For When – Perinatal Mental health and wellbeing 

https://forwhenhelpline.org.au/ 

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