Clubfoot is a foot abnormality that is seen immediately at birth. The baby has a foot that is twisted and is turned at an angle to the ankle. Clubfoot is a fairly common birth defect and usually does not mean the baby has other health problems. The American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons says that clubfoot occurs in about one out of every 1,000 births in the United States. In about 50 percent of these cases, both feet are deformed. A clubfoot is often apparent in an ultrasound before birth.
Causes
Researchers aren't sure what causes clubfoot in newborns, but they do know it is not connected to the way the baby is positioned in the uterus before birth. There is a genetic factor: a baby is twice as likely to have clubfoot if the mother or father also had it.
Symptoms
The positioning of the foot is the only major symptom. Despite the awkward appearance, clubfoot causes no pain to the baby. The calf and leg are smaller and shorter on the clubfoot side
Non-surgical Treatment
Clubfoot treatment begins almost immediately after birth. If the problem can be corrected before the baby starts walking, long-term problems can usually be avoided. The Ponseti Method of stretching and casting is the standard treatment. The orthopedist will turn the foot into the correct position and put a cast on to help keep that position. Over a period of several weeks, the doctor will reposition the foot and recast it. Once the foot is positioned correctly, the child needs to wear a brace at night for about 2 years. This is extremely important to keep the foot positioned correctly long-term. Additionally, the need stretching exercises and special orthopedic shoes.
Surgical Treatment
When the Ponseti Method doesn't work, the orthpedist will most likely suggest surgery to lengthen the tendons, which will allow him to position the foot correctly. This procedure is usually done anywhere from 9 to 12 months of age. In severe cases, the doctor may perform surgery on a baby as young as 3 months. The child's foot will be in a cast after surgery, and he will still need night braces and special shoes.
Complications
Almost all cases of clubfoot can be treated successfully to the point where the child can function normally. One foot may always be a bit stiff, but with proper treatment the baby should be able to learn to walk with no problems. If the clubfoot is left untreated, it will eventually become a severe disability. The child will be unable to walk properly and arthritis may develop. Pain may occur. Since the child will have to walk on the outside or top of the foot, painful sores and calluses can form. Children with untreated clubfoot often have a poor self-image because of the disability.
Tags: child will, before birth, clubfoot often, foot positioned, foot positioned correctly, Ponseti Method