If you’re expecting a baby and are concerned about clubfoot, knowing the facts can help you make informed decisions about your child’s care. Clubfoot is a congenital condition that, while it may sound daunting, can be treated effectively with early intervention. Here’s what you need to know about clubfoot, its causes, symptoms, and the treatment options available, including the pioneering Ponseti method.
What Causes Clubfoot in Children?
Clubfoot is a congenital disorder that occurs when the tendons and muscles connecting a baby’s heel to the leg are shorter than normal, causing the foot to turn inward. Affecting approximately 7 in 1,000 children in the United States, clubfoot is more common in boys than girls. It can affect one or both feet, and in some cases, it is linked to neuromuscular disorders. Additionally, the condition can run in families, increasing the likelihood of it being passed down.
Although the exact cause of clubfoot remains debated, several factors have been linked to a higher incidence, including genetics, maternal smoking, drug use during pregnancy, low amniotic fluid, and maternal age. Early diagnosis, even in utero via ultrasound, provides parents the opportunity to explore treatment options and plan accordingly. Scheduling a consultation with a pediatric orthopedic surgeon before the baby is born can help families understand the available treatments.
What Are the Early Signs of Clubfoot?
Clubfoot is usually present at birth and can often be diagnosed shortly afterward. It can also be detected during prenatal ultrasounds. The common signs of clubfoot include:
- The foot or feet turning inward.
- The affected foot may appear shorter than the other by about ½ inch.
- Calf muscles in the affected leg may appear smaller than usual.
Pediatricians can typically visually diagnose clubfoot, but imaging techniques such as X-rays may also be used to confirm the diagnosis. Early detection is crucial, as it allows for treatment to begin as soon as possible, helping improve the child’s mobility and quality of life.
When Should I See a Pediatric Orthopedic Surgeon?
If your child is born with clubfoot or if it is detected during a prenatal ultrasound, it’s essential to schedule a consultation with a pediatric orthopedic surgeon. Early intervention is key to the success of nonsurgical methods, such as the Ponseti method, which minimizes the need for surgery later on.
Dr. Mark Rieger, the only physician in New Jersey currently listed on the Ponseti webpage, was the first in the state to use the Ponseti method for treating clubfoot. This approach involves gentle stretching of the child’s foot and securing it in a series of plaster casts to gradually correct the deformity. Meeting with a specialist before birth ensures that families are prepared to begin treatment as soon as their baby is born.
Early Intervention & Treatment for Clubfoot
Treating clubfoot as early as possible, ideally within the first few weeks after birth, is crucial for optimal outcomes. If left untreated, clubfoot can lead to significant mobility problems later in life. Early intervention ensures the foot develops normally, and most cases can be corrected without surgery.
The Ponseti Method: Nonsurgical Treatment for Clubfoot
The Ponseti method is the gold standard for treating clubfoot nonsurgically. This minimally invasive technique involves a series of casts to gently stretch the child’s foot and gradually correct its position. Each week, the cast is removed and replaced to continue the correction process. Most children with clubfoot need about six weeks of casting to achieve proper alignment.
In some cases, a minor procedure may be required to lengthen the Achilles tendon. After the series of casts, the child will need to wear a brace during naps and nighttime until around age four to maintain the correction and prevent relapse. Cast technicians play a critical role in ensuring the casting process is done correctly, making the Ponseti method a highly effective nonsurgical treatment.
Surgical Treatment for Clubfoot
In rare cases, if nonsurgical treatments are not fully successful, surgery may be needed to correct clubfoot. Surgical intervention typically involves lengthening tendons and realigning bones to ensure proper foot function. However, surgery is much less common today, thanks to the success of the Ponseti method.
About Our Pediatric Orthopedic Surgeons
At The Pediatric Orthopedic Center, our board-certified pediatric orthopedic surgeons have extensive experience treating clubfoot and other congenital disorders.
- Dr. Mark Rieger is a leader in the treatment of clubfoot and was the first in New Jersey to use the Ponseti method. He continues to drive innovation in nonsurgical treatments, ensuring the best outcomes for his young patients.
- Dr. Tamir Bloom specializes in pediatric orthopedics, with expertise in both surgical and nonsurgical interventions, tailoring treatment plans to meet each child’s needs.
- Dr. Mark Solomon, a board-certified foot and ankle specialist, offers a wealth of experience in treating both pediatric and adult foot conditions. He is known for his advanced techniques and patient-centered care.
Request an Appointment
If your child has been diagnosed with clubfoot, or if you’d like to consult with our pediatric orthopedic specialists, contact The Pediatric Orthopedic Center today. With over 30 years of experience in treating clubfoot and a commitment to the latest nonsurgical treatment advancements, we provide comprehensive care to help children born with this condition thrive.
Dr. Rieger, a pioneer in the Ponseti method, leads our team in providing the best possible outcomes. Schedule an appointment today to explore treatment options and help your child start on the path to a healthy, active life.
