Clubfoot, also known as congenital talipes equinovarus (CTEV), is a condition where a newborn’s foot is twisted inward and downward. This club foot disorder is one of the most common congenital conditions affecting the legs and feet. It can vary in severity, from mild clubfoot that is flexible to severe cases where the foot is rigid and difficult to move.
If left untreated, clubfoot may cause long-term problems such as difficulty in walking, abnormal gait, or reliance on the side of the foot for balance. However, with early club foot treatment, most children can recover completely, walk normally, and participate in sports or daily activities like any other child.
Clubfoot disease is not caused by anything a parent did or did not do during pregnancy. The exact cause is still not completely understood, but research suggests a mix of genetic and environmental factors.
There are different types of club foot disorder:
Parents can often notice clubfoot symptoms right at birth or even before birth during an ultrasound. Key signs include:
Clubfoot is usually diagnosed at birth by physical examination. Sometimes, it can also be detected during pregnancy via ultrasound. Doctors may also take X-rays to assess the severity of the deformity before planning club foot management.
The good news is that club foot treatment is highly effective when started early—preferably within the first few weeks after birth. Treatment aims to correct the position of the foot and allow the child to walk normally.
The Ponseti method is the most widely used technique in CTEV treatment. It involves:
This method is highly effective for both mild clubfoot and severe cases.
In some cases where non-surgical methods are not sufficient, clubfoot surgery may be required. Surgery involves releasing tight tendons and repositioning bones to correct foot alignment. Surgical intervention is more common in complex or relapsed cases, or when treating bilateral clubfoot that is resistant to bracing and casting.
Even after correction, long-term club foot management is necessary. This includes regular follow-ups, physical therapy to improve strength and flexibility, and continued use of braces as advised by the doctor.
Most children who undergo CTEV treatment go on to lead completely normal lives. They can walk, run, and play sports like other children. The earlier the intervention, the better the outcomes.
Clubfoot is a treatable condition, and with timely intervention, children can grow up to live active, healthy lives. Whether it requires non-surgical correction or clubfoot surgery, the right approach ensures the best results. Parents should seek care from experienced pediatric specialists to avoid long-term complications.
Aditya Birla Memorial Hospital is recognized as the Best Pediatric Hospital in Pimpri-Chinchwad, offering advanced orthopedic care for children. Our team, including the Best Pediatrician in Pimpri, Pune, provides personalized treatment for conditions like clubfoot, ensuring children get the best start in life.
Aditya Birla Memorial Hospital provides advanced pediatric care for clubfoot treatment in Pimpri-Chinchwad and nearby areas, including Hinjewadi, Wakad, Baner, Aundh, Pimple Saudagar, Bhosari, Ravet, Chinchwad Gaon, Tathawade, Nigdi, PCMC, Pimpri, Moshi, and Chakan. With expert pediatricians, modern facilities, and compassionate care, we ensure the best outcomes for children requiring CTEV treatment.
Clubfoot is a congenital condition where a baby’s foot turns inward and downward, making walking difficult if not corrected.
Symptoms include inward turning of the foot, smaller calf muscles, and abnormal walking patterns.
Most cases are corrected using the Ponseti method—gentle stretching, casting, and bracing. In severe cases, clubfoot surgery may be needed.
It refers to treatment when both feet are affected. The same casting and bracing methods are used for both feet simultaneously.
No, even mild clubfoot requires medical intervention to avoid long-term walking issues.
Treatment should start as early as possible—ideally within the first 1–2 weeks of birth.
Aditya Birla Memorial Hospital, known as the Best Pediatric Hospital in Pimpri-Chinchwad, offers expert care by the Best Pediatrician in Pimpri, Pune for effective clubfoot management.