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Clubfoot

Alternative Names: Talipes equinovarus; Talipes Treatment: A clubfoot may be treated by manipulating the foot into a correct position, and casting the foot to maintain the position. This is often done by an orthopedic specialist. The procedure should be started as early as possible -- ideally, shortly after birth -- when reshaping the foot is easiest. Text Continues Below Gentle manipulation (stretching) and recasting occurs every week to improve the position of the foot. Generally, 5 - 10 casts are necessary. The final cast remains in place for 3 weeks. After the foot is realigned, the correction is maintained with a special type of brace, consisting of shoes attached to a bar. The best results are obtained when the brace is worn nearly fulltime for 3 months, and then at night and during naps for up to 3 years. Some severe cases of clubfoot will require surgery if the manipulation process is not successful, or if the deformity returns. Continued evaluation is recommended until the foot is fully grown. Expectations (prognosis): The outcome is usually good with treatment. Complications: Some defects may not be totally correctable, but with treatment the appearance and function of the foot can be improved. The treatment may be less successful if the clubfoot is associated with other birth disorders. Calling your health care provider: 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.

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