Clubfoot

Clubfoot (talipes equinovarus) is the term used to describe a particular abnormality of the foot or ankle, present at birth. According to the March of Dimes (MOD), clubfoot is one of the most common birth defects. (Read about "Birth Defects") Severe forms of it affect one out of every 5,000 babies born each year. Less severe forms affect one of every thousand babies.

In clubfoot, the affected foot points downward, the toes turn inward and the bottom of the foot twists inward. The bones, joints and ligaments may all be affected. (Read about "Skeletal System") Clubfoot may be genetic (Read about "Genetics"), and MOD says boys are affected with the severe forms of clubfoot twice as much as girls. One foot may be affected only, or - in half the cases - both feet may be affected.

While clubfoot is not painful, it can become a problem as the child begins to walk. As the child walks on the edge of the foot instead of the sole, he or she can develop calluses, have problems wearing shoes and restrict activities because of pain or discomfort.

Causes

In most cases, MOD says the exact cause of clubfoot is not known. Researchers believe that it is caused by a combination of genetics and other factors like infection, drugs or disease. Many scientists believe clubfoot likely develops in the 10th to 12th week of pregnancy. (Read about "Stages of Pregnancy") Clubfoot sometimes can be diagnosed before birth, during an ultrasound examination. (Read about "Ultrasound Imaging")

Treatment

Luckily, there are many treatments for clubfoot including manipulation, casts and surgery. The initial treatment for clubfoot is non-surgical. Treatment should begin as soon as possible. Manipulation is designed to correct the condition and then casting is done to maintain the correction. Since clubfoot can recur, braces may be necessary. If manipulation, casting and braces do not correct the condition, surgery may be needed. MOD suggests that parents of infants with clubfoot discuss their options with an orthopedic surgeon specializing in pediatric surgery.

There is no known prevention for this defect. Researchers however are trying to uncover the genetic and environmental forces that may cause clubfoot. That may one day lead to prevention of this birth defect as well as others.

Related Information:

    Birth Defects