Club foot is an uncommon birth defect (~1 in 1000) in which one or both of the feet are turned inward and downward, which causes a person to walk on the sides of their feet.

The disorder is twice as common in boys.

It tends to run in families, so it is much more common if a parent or brother or sister has the disorder.

Causes:

• Cause in unknown

• Can be associated with hip and neck abnormalities

Signs and Symptoms:

• High arched foot with the toes pointing down (“Equinus”)

• Heel is rolled inward (“Varus”)

• The toes point inward to the body (“Metatarsus adductus”)

Treatment:

Treatment should begin immediately to have the best result

• Stretching and casting: the doctor will change the cast every week or other week for several weeks, always stretching the foot toward the correct position

• The Achilles tendon may need to be released surgically even if the casting is stretching the foot out well

• Once the foot is corrected the child must wear a brace at night for up to two years

• If not corrected by three to four months, the child may require surgery

When to visit a pediatric orthopedist?

Any abnormal position of the foot should be evaluated by a pediatric orthopaedist. You should visit a pediatric orthopedist at as young an age as possible, so treatment can begin right away.

Clubfeet on both sides in an infant.  Note the high arch, downward and inward pointing toes and inward rolles heels