Clubfoot, also known as talipes equinovarus, is a foot condition often seen in infants. About one in every 1,000 babies falls victim to it, and occurs in males twice as often as in females. If treated immediately, most patients recover completely during early childhood. With clubfoot, your feet are positioned incorrectly, typically with the feet pointing downward or facing each other. This condition can affect one or both feet.

Common Causes

Although the exact causes of clubfoot are unknown, it is usually caused by genetic and environmental factors. A child has a higher chance of being born with clubfoot if…

Their mother smoked during pregnancy
Someone in their family has or had clubfoot
They are males
Their parent has a history of spinal cord injuries

Signs and Symptoms

The calf muscles of the affected leg are usually underdeveloped
The foot is twisted downward and inward, increasing the arch, while the heel area is small
The clubfoot may be up to about an ½ inch shorter than the other foot
In some cases, clubfoot can be detected before birth during an ultrasound

Treatments For Clubfoot

Although taking care of a child who has clubfoot can be challenging, there are many options for parents to minimize their child’s discomfort and take steps to treat the condition early on. After a thorough examination, a board-certified podiatrist will create a customized treatment plan for the infant.

Serial casting: The foot is stretched towards the proper position and then cast to hold that position. Once the foot position is corrected, the child must wear a brace full-time for 3 months. After this period, the brace must be worn at night and during daytime naps for 3 years.
In very severe cases, surgery might be required.

At Advanced Foot Care of NJ, LLC, Dr. Anant Joshi and his staff treat a range of conditions and are committed to providing results. We are conveniently located in Woodland Park and welcome our neighbors in Little Falls, Cedar Grove, Verona, Stoney Road, Sandy Hill, Albion Place, and Great Notch. To schedule an appointment, contact his office at 973-256-0002.