Clubfoot

Clubfoot (medically known as «pes equinovarus») is a deformity of the foot that is common in newborns. It is characterised by a clear bending of the heel towards the centre of the body, a bending of the midfoot and the sole of the foot points inwards, i.e. also towards the centre of the body. Clubfoot can occur in one or both feet and varies in severity.

Clubfoot occurs in around 1 in 1,000 births and affects boys more often than girls. The exact cause is not yet fully understood, but genetic factors play a significant role. Clubfoot can either be congenital, which means that it is already present at birth, or in very rare cases it can also be acquired.

Symptoms include a visible deformity of the foot, which is often accompanied by a shortening of the Achilles tendon and a deformation of the foot bones. Children with clubfoot have difficulty walking and running without treatment, as the foot does not improve spontaneously and is therefore unable to perform its normal function properly.

Clubfoot is usually treated in two phases: conservative treatment and, if necessary, surgery. Firstly, the foot is stretched and brought into the correct position using a special method known as the Ponseti method. This method involves plastering and stretching tendons and ligaments to correct the deformity. In most cases, a minor procedure that can be performed in the consultation is necessary to permanently correct the pointed foot deformity in particular. This component of clubfoot can only be influenced to a limited extent by plaster therapy alone. In addition, follow-up treatment with special splints is important to prevent further deterioration of the corrected foot.

Without treatment, clubfoot can lead to permanent mobility restrictions and pain when walking. With early and intensive treatment, however, a virtually normal foot position is possible. In most cases, children can walk, play and be active in sports without major restrictions after treatment. Complete normalisation of foot shape and function cannot be guaranteed in most cases. However, remaining differences to the normal foot, such as differences in length, do not usually cause any restrictions.