What is Clubfoot? Symptoms and Treatment

Clubfoot is an orthopedic condition that occurs when the foot stands or develops in a different position than its normal anatomical position. While it can be seen at birth, in some cases it may develop later as a result of problems related to nerves, muscles, joints or bones.

Although the term clubfoot can be used to describe different foot deformities in daily use, it is especially used for the congenital condition medically called "clubfoot" or "pes equinovarus". In this picture, findings such as the foot turning inward and downward, the sole of the foot facing inward, and the calf muscles being smaller than the other leg can be seen.

Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment are important for the foot to regain as normal a position and function as possible. The treatment method may vary depending on the person's age, type and severity of the deformity.

In this article, we discuss what clubfoot is, its causes, symptoms, how it is diagnosed, and what treatment methods can be used.

What is Clubfoot?

Clubfoot is a foot deformity characterized by the foot and ankle being in a position different from their normal anatomical alignment.

Congenital clubfoot may be noticed when the baby is born. One of the most distinctive features is that the foot turns downward and inward. The deformity may affect one foot or may be seen in both feet.

Clubfoot is not a condition that only affects the appearance of the foot. If left untreated or not properly monitored, it may affect walking style, foot functions and mobility in the future.

What Causes Clubfoot?

The exact cause of congenital clubfoot may not always be determined. It is thought that genetic and environmental factors may play a role together.

Some conditions that may be associated with clubfoot include:

• Having a family history of clubfoot
• genetic factors
• Some developmental factors during pregnancy
• Some diseases related to the nervous and muscular system
• Spinal cord or nervous system problems
• Some syndromes and neuromuscular diseases

However, it is not correct to say that congenital clubfoot is caused only by the baby's position in the womb during pregnancy.

What are the symptoms of clubfoot?

Symptoms of clubfoot may vary depending on the type and severity of the deformity. The physical appearance of congenitally crooked feet can often be noticed shortly after birth.

Common symptoms include:

• Feet turned inwards and downwards
• The sole of the foot facing the opposite leg or towards the inside
• The heel looks inward
• Foot appearing shorter than normal
• Calf muscles are smaller than the other leg
• Limitation in ankle movements
• Inability or difficulty in bringing the foot to its normal position

In older children or untreated cases, differences such as stepping on the outer edge of the foot while walking may be observed.

How to Identify Clubfoot in Babies?

Congenital clubfoot is most often noticed during a physical examination immediately after birth. The posture of the foot, its range of motion and whether the deformity is flexible are evaluated.

In some cases, foot deformity can be noticed in ultrasound examinations performed during pregnancy. However, definitive evaluation is usually made through a physical examination after birth.

If the baby's foot is clearly turned inwards or downwards, it is important to be evaluated by a pediatric orthopedist.

How is Clubfoot Diagnosed?

In the diagnosis of clubfoot, a physical examination is first performed. The doctor evaluates the foot's position, range of motion, flexibility, and differences with the other leg.

Congenitally clubfoot can often be diagnosed by physical examination. Imaging testing may not be necessary in every case.

However, in cases where the deformity is thought to have developed later or when there is a suspicion of another problem related to the bone, joint, nervous or muscular system, x-ray or different imaging methods can be used.

Can Clubfoot Be Treated?

Clubfoot is treatable and it is important to start treatment as early as possible.

The treatment plan is determined according to the person's age, the characteristics of the deformity, the flexibility of the foot, and whether any treatment has been performed before.

One of the most commonly used methods in the treatment of congenital clubfoot is the Ponseti method. In this approach, serial casting is applied to gradually bring the foot into the correct position.

If necessary, a minor surgical procedure may be performed on the Achilles tendon. After the treatment, a special orthosis or shoe system can be used to prevent the foot from deforming again.

What is the Ponseti Method?

The Ponseti method is a conservative treatment approach widely used in the treatment of congenital clubfoot.

In the treatment, the position of the foot is corrected at regular intervals and a plaster cast is applied at each stage. The aim is to gradually bring the foot to the correct position.

In some babies, a minor procedure on the Achilles tendon may be required to position the foot in a certain position.

Compliance with the use of orthoses after treatment is important to reduce the risk of recurrence of the deformity.

Does Clubfoot Require Surgery?

Surgery is not required in every case of clubfoot. Successful results can be achieved with non-surgical treatments, especially in a significant portion of congenital clubfoot.

However, surgical treatment may be considered in cases where there is no adequate response to treatment, there is advanced deformity, or in cases that recur despite previous treatments.

The decision for surgery should be made by an orthopedist and traumatologist by evaluating the characteristics of the deformity and the general health condition of the person.

What Happens If Clubfoot Is Not Treated?

Clubfoot that is not treated or adequately monitored can affect walking and movement functions over time.

When the child starts walking, he/she steps on inappropriate areas of the foot; It can cause calluses, pain, balance problems and changes in walking style.

In older ages, problems such as wear, limitation of movement and chronic pain may occur in the foot and ankle joints.

For this reason, it is important not to delay treatment, especially in babies with suspected congenital clubfoot.

Does Clubfoot Recur?

Yes. After clubfoot has been successfully treated, it is possible for the deformity to reoccur in some cases.

In order to reduce the risk of recurrence, it is important to use the recommended orthosis or special shoes after the treatment for the time and in the manner specified by the doctor.

If the foot turns inward again, changes in movements, or a difference in walking style is noticed, another orthopedic evaluation should be performed.

Does Clubfoot Affect Daily Life?

In cases of clubfoot diagnosed early and treated appropriately, normal or near-normal walking and daily living activities may be possible in the majority of children.

However, the severity of the deformity, the time to start treatment, compliance with treatment, and whether it develops again may affect long-term results.

Regular check-ups after treatment help monitor the development and function of the foot.

Are clubfoot and flat feet the same thing?

No. Clubfoot and flat feet are different foot problems.

With flat feet, the natural curve on the inside of the foot may decrease or become completely flat. In clubfoot, a significant inward and downward rotation can be seen in the position of the foot and ankle.

The evaluation and treatment approach for both conditions is different. Therefore, if there is concern about the shape of the foot or the way it is pressed, an orthopedic and traumatology specialist should be consulted.

When to Consult an Orthopedics and Traumatology Specialist?

If a significant congenital deformity is noticed in the baby's foot, if the foot is turned inwards or downwards, or if the foot cannot be brought to its normal position, orthopedics and traumatology evaluation should be performed.

In older children, expert evaluation is important in cases such as stepping on the outer edge of the foot while walking, limping, frequent falls, pain in the foot or ankle, limitation of movement or significant shape change.

Early evaluation, especially for foot deformities in childhood, can help create an appropriate treatment plan.

Get Support from an Orthopedics and Traumatology Specialist with Happ Health

With the approach of "Health Everywhere, For Everyone, Always", we believe that it is important to protect the health of the movement system from childhood and to evaluate the differences in foot development early.

If you notice a significant inward or downward turning of your baby or child's foot, deformity, walking problem or movement limitation, contact Happ Health. Online Orthopedics and Traumatology You can reach orthopedics and traumatology specialists by using the service.

The specialist physician evaluates the appearance and movement characteristics of the foot and, if deemed necessary, may direct you for physical examination, imaging or more comprehensive orthopedic evaluation. After diagnosis, it can help create a treatment and follow-up plan appropriate to the child's age and the characteristics of the deformity.

It is especially important to evaluate congenital foot deformities without delaying them until later periods, in order to plan appropriate treatment options in a timely manner.