If your baby is born with a clubfoot don’t let your mind wander about all the bad things that might happen. Instead, arm yourself with knowledge and the security in knowing that we can help treat it without any further complications.
What is Clubfoot
Clubfoot is usually present at birth and it is considered a congenital deformity. It can either occur in one foot or both feet. Babies who have clubfoot experience no pain or discomfort, but it’s still a condition that should be taken care of immediately to avoid complications down the line. Clubfoot develops in the womb and can be the result of placement while in utero, but more often than not it’s the result of a combination of genetics and environmental factors. Sometimes (but not always) it can signify a bigger problem, so it’s important to get your child screened for spina bifida and other health conditions.
Treatment for Clubfoot
The good news is that once you know your child has clubfoot you can get started on treatment immediately. Surgery isn’t even usually required if treatment begins ASAP! The most effective way to treatment clubfoot is with the Ponsetti casting method. This is done by casting the foot for a period of time and then removing the cast to gently manipulate and stretch the foot to its correct position. There are usually several weeks of casting, stretching, and re-casting, but by the end your child should have normal looking feet without any lasting damage. After the final cast is removed there is a slight chance of relapse. To avoid this the foot is placed in a splint. The splint is to be worn full time for at least two months and then only at night for about two years.
If you have more questions about treating and dealing with clubfoot please call Dr. Peyman Elison and Dr. Viedra Elison at (623) 584-5556 to schedule an appointment with us at Fixing Feet Institute in Surprise, AZ.
