Club foot
(Diseases)
This page provides everything you need to know about clubfoot.
What is clubfoot?
- Clubfoot is a congenital deformity that affects the foot, causing one or both feet to turn inward. Clubfoot occurs due to a problem with the tendons,which are the tissues that connect muscles to bones. In children with clubfoot, the tendons in the leg and foot are shorter and tighter than normal.
- There are twotypes of clubfoot:
Isolated or idiopathic clubfoot: This is the most common type. If the child has clubfoot without any other medical issues, it is called isolated clubfoot.
Non-isolated clubfoot: This occurs alongside other health problems, including arthrogryposis (a joint problem) and spina bifida (a neural tube disorder). Neural tube defects are problems affecting the brain, spine, and spinal cord.
What are the symptoms of clubfoot?
- The most common sign of clubfoot is one or both feet being twisted inward, making the foot appear opposite to the leg.
- You may also notice the following in the child:
- One or both feet resemble the shape of a kidney.
- A deep crease on the inner middle side of the foot.
- An abnormal arch (called cavus foot deformity).
- A smaller calf muscle in the affected leg.
- A shorter foot.
Stiffness inthe ankle.
Limited foot movement.
- What are thecauses of clubfoot?
- The cause of clubfoot is not yet known,but the following factors may contribute to it:
Genetic factors: A defect in one or more genes (passed from parents to children) may lead to clubfoot.
Environmental factors: Drug use and smoking during pregnancy may increase the risk of giving birth to a child with a birth defect such as clubfoot.
- How is clubfoot diagnosed?
- The doctor takes a medical history and performs a physical examination, and may order additional procedures if needed, such as:
Ultrasound during pregnancy.
X-rays of the baby after birth.:
- What are the treatment methods for clubfoot?
- Treatment is done through several measures, or as needed, and may include the following:
- Physical therapy and splinting are used to correct the curvature.
Bracing, using special shoes to keep the foot at the correct angle.
Surgery in advanced cases.
- How can clubfoot be prevented?
- To prevent clubfoot during pregnancy, the following should be observed:
Ensure regular checkups during pregnancy.
- Quit smoking.
- What are the complications of clubfoot?
- Arthritis.
Inability to walk normally.
Problems such as sores due to abnormal walking.
When should you see a doctor?
You should see a doctor throughout the pregnancy and continue follow-ups for the child after birth.
Frequently Asked Questions:
