Club Foot (Congenital Talipes Equinovarus)

Club Foot (Congenital Talipes Equinovarus)

Club Foot is a congenital (present at birth) deformity in which a baby’s foot is twisted out of its normal position. The condition may affect one or both feet and is characterized by the foot turning inward and downward, giving it a club-like appearance. Without treatment, children with club foot may experience difficulty in walking, pain, and long-term disability. Fortunately, with early diagnosis and proper treatment, most children born with club foot can achieve normal or near-normal function and live active, pain-free lives.

Signs & Symptoms of Club Foot

    • One or both feet turned inward and downward

    • Shortened foot with a high arch

    • Calf muscles appearing underdeveloped

    • Limited range of motion in the ankle or foot

    • Unequal leg lengths in severe or untreated cases

    • Walking on the sides or tops of the feet if untreated

Diagnostic Procedure

Dr. Ashwin Chowdhary follows a precise, step-by-step approach to diagnosing and managing club foot:

  • Clinical Examination: Careful evaluation of the newborn’s foot and leg alignment.

  • Prenatal Ultrasound: Sometimes club foot is detected before birth.

  • X-rays (if required): To assess bone structure and severity of deformity.

  • Functional Assessment: Understanding flexibility of the foot to plan treatment.

Treatment for Club Foot

  • Ponseti Method (Gold Standard Treatment):

    • Gentle manipulation and weekly plaster casting to gradually correct the deformity.

    • Often followed by a minor procedure (tenotomy) to release the tight Achilles tendon.

    • Bracing with special shoes to prevent recurrence.

  • Physical Therapy & Stretching:

    • Exercises to maintain flexibility and muscle strength during and after treatment.

  • Surgical Intervention (in resistant cases):

    • Corrective surgery may be needed if casting and bracing are insufficient.

Why Choose Dr. Ashwin Chowdhary for Club Foot Treatment?

  • Specialist in Paediatric & Foot Deformity Surgery: Extensive expertise in treating congenital and acquired foot deformities.

  • International Training & Fellowships: Skilled in advanced techniques from global centers of excellence.

  • Expert in Ponseti Method: Proven success in non-surgical correction of club foot in infants and young children.

  • Comprehensive Care: From newborn diagnosis to rehabilitation, ensuring long-term success and mobility.

  • Patient-Centric Approach: Compassionate care with detailed counseling for parents, ensuring confidence and clarity throughout the treatment process.