Talipes equinovaros or more commonly known as club foot is a type of foot deformity. Clubfoot is a birth defect that affects s 1 in every 1,000 newborns. Clubfoot a defect for small babies which makes them has smaller toes than the regular babies.

Once you notice that the calf and leg are shorter than normal and there is an inward twisting of the heel and toes, your child may probably have a clubfoot. Though painless, it is still a need to treat clubfoot because leaving it untreated will make it remain twisted for life. Once clubfoot is suspected, make sure to contact your podiatrist for help and possible treatments. Dr. Jonathan Kletz is a podiatrist who specializes in helping people with club foot and other foot deformities

HOW TO TREAT CLUBFOOT IN BABIES?

A treatment for clubfoot must start as soon as possible so that the baby may have stable feet by the time she or he is ready to walk.

NON-SURGICAL TREATMENTS

Casting: This is done by positioning the foot in the right position and immobilize it through casting until the next treatment. This is done every 1-2 weeks for 2-4 months.

Traditional casting - one position of the foot is being corrected by casting one at a time.

Ponseti (Iowa) method - two foot position problems are being corrected both at the same time. The front part of the baby's foot is being turned in and up to the correct position.

SURGICAL TREATMENTS

Surgical procedures are done to lengthen the tight soft tissue structures as well as ligaments and tendons to the right position. Most often, it involves the use of small wires to keep hold of the bone and are only removed after 4-6 weeks. Casting or splinting will also be done after the surgery to keep the position of the foot in place while recovering.

PHYSICAL THERAPY

Physical therapy may be required after a surgery procedure to ensure that the function of the foot is well and maintained.

To help your child better and prevent the condition of clubfoot which makes his/her toes small, it is best to undergo these steps as soon as possible while it is still easy for the doctors to correct the damage.

Texas Foot Works located in Dallas, Athens and Gun Barrell City, TX, we specialize in helping people suffering from foot conditions.  To schedule an appointment, call 214-340-8885.