Clubfoot, also known as talipes equinovarus, is a congenital foot deformity characterized by an abnormal positioning of a newborn’s foot. This condition manifests when the child’s foot is turned inward and downward, sometimes resembling a hooked foot.

There are two main types of clubfoot in children:

Equinus clubfoot: The foot is turned inward in an equinus position, meaning the tip of the foot points downward.

Varus clubfoot: The foot is also turned inward in a varus position, meaning the front part of the foot tilts upward.

Clubfoot can affect one or both feet, although both feet are more commonly involved. The severity of the condition can vary from mild to severe.

The causes of clubfoot are not always clear but are often multifactorial. It may be due to genetic factors, environmental influences, or fetal developmental abnormalities. Early detection and intervention are crucial for treating clubfoot in children. Treatment may include gentle manipulations, braces, casts, or, in more severe cases, surgery to correct the deformity and allow the foot to develop properly.

Early treatment is generally more effective, and in many cases, children with clubfoot can lead normal lives after appropriate intervention and rehabilitation. Parents of children with clubfoot should consult a healthcare professional specializing in pediatric orthopedics for diagnosis and a tailored treatment plan.