Clubfoot is one of the most common congenital orthopedic conditions, affecting nearly 1 in every 1,000 newborns. It may sound alarming to parents, especially those hearing the term for the first time at birth, but the good news is that modern treatment techniques are highly effective, especially when started early.
This blog explains what clubfoot is, why early intervention is critical, and how current treatment options are helping children live normal, active lives.
What Is Clubfoot?
Clubfoot (also called Congenital Talipes Equinovarus) is a condition where a baby’s foot is twisted out of its normal position. Typically, the foot points downward and inward, making walking difficult if left untreated. It can affect one or both feet, and in most cases, there is no known cause. However, it may be linked to genetic or environmental factors.
Despite its appearance, clubfoot doesn’t cause pain in newborns. But if untreated, it can lead to significant mobility problems and lifelong disability.
Why Early Treatment Matters
The earlier clubfoot is diagnosed and treated—ideally shortly after birth—the better the results. Newborn bones and joints are very soft and flexible, which means they respond well to gentle manipulation and correction. Most treatments begin within the first 1 to 2 weeks of life.
Delaying treatment can make correction more difficult and increase the chances of needing invasive surgery later.
Modern Treatment Options for Clubfoot
Thanks to advances in pediatric orthopedics, clubfoot treatment today is less invasive, highly successful, and designed to give children a normal life. Here are the most widely used and effective options:
1. The Ponseti Method: The Gold Standard
The Ponseti method is the most popular and successful technique for treating clubfoot worldwide. It is non-surgical and involves:
- Gentle stretching and casting: The child’s foot is gradually moved into the correct position through weekly adjustments and plaster casts, typically over 5–8 weeks.
- Minor surgical procedure (Tenotomy): In most cases, a small outpatient procedure is done to release the tight Achilles tendon, allowing the foot to flex properly.
- Bracing phase: After correction, the child wears a foot abduction brace (FAB) for 3–4 years during naps and nighttime to prevent recurrence.
Success Rate: Over 90% when done properly by trained specialists.
2. French Functional Method (Physiotherapy-Based)
This method uses daily stretching, taping, and splinting instead of casting. It’s more intensive and requires strong parental involvement and trained physiotherapists.
Although less commonly used than Ponseti, it can be effective in certain cases or regions.
3. Surgical Correction (Reserved for Complex Cases)
If the clubfoot is rigid, recurrent, or wasn’t corrected early enough, surgical intervention may be necessary. Surgery involves lengthening or repositioning tendons and ligaments to align the foot properly.
However, modern orthopedics prioritizes minimally invasive approaches and avoids surgery unless absolutely needed, as it may lead to stiffness or arthritis later in life.
What Parents Should Know
- Consistency is key: The Ponseti method works best when all steps, especially brace wear, are followed exactly.
- Follow-ups matter: Regular checkups with your orthopedic doctor help prevent relapse and monitor growth.
- Long-term outlook is excellent: With proper treatment, children with corrected clubfoot can run, play, and live just like any other child—with no limitations.
When to Consult a Pediatric Orthopedic Specialist
If your newborn has been diagnosed with clubfoot, don’t wait to seek expert care. The earlier you begin treatment, the better the outcomes. At Child OrthoCare, Dr. Nargesh Agrawal specializes in treating clubfoot using the Ponseti method and other advanced techniques customized to your child’s needs.
Why Choose Child OrthoCare?
At Child OrthoCare, we offer specialized care for children with orthopedic conditions. Led by Dr. Nargesh Agarwal, a leading Pediatric Orthopedic Surgeon with extensive experience in treating clubfoot using the Ponseti Method, we ensure your child receives compassionate, evidence-based treatment.
Visit Us:
Child OrthoCare Clinic
Call Us: +91-9873191340
