Clubfoot

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Club foot deformity

Club foot repair - series

Talipes equinovarus; Talipes

A clubfoot may be treated by moving the foot into the correct position and using a cast to keep it there. This is often done by an orthopedic specialist. The treatment should be started as early as possible -- ideally, shortly after birth -- when reshaping the foot is easiest.

Gentle manipulation (stretching) and recasting occurs every week to improve the position of the foot. Generally, 5 to 10 casts are needed. The final cast remains in place for 3 weeks. After the foot is in the correct position, a special brace is worn nearly full-time for 3 months. After, it is used at night and during naps for up to 3 years.

Often, a simple outpatient procedure is needed to release a tightened Achilles tendon.

Some severe cases of clubfoot will require surgery if other treatments do not work or if the problem returns. The child should be monitored by a doctor until the foot is fully grown.

The outcome is usually good with treatment.

Some defects may not be able to be fully fixed. But, with treatment, the appearance and function of the foot can be improved. The treatment may be less successful if the clubfoot is linked to other birth disorders.

If your child is being treated for clubfoot, call your health care provider if swelling, bleeding, or change in color of the toes occurs under the cast, if the toes disappear into the cast, if the cast slides off, or if the foot begins to turn in again after treatment.

Review Date: 12/04/2006
Reviewed By: Thomas N. Joseph, MD, Private Practice specializing in Orthopaedics, subspecialty Foot and Ankle, Camden Bone & Joint, Camden, SC. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.