Your Child’s Clubfoot Can Be Treated In the Houston Area

Club Foot is a congenital deformity that occurs in about 1 in 1000 births, and is thought to be genetic. Club foot is characterized by the downward and inward turning of the foot, and is caused by tendons in the back and inside of the foot and ankle being shorter than the tendons on the outside and front. It can affect one or both feet, and requires treatment because it does not get better on its own. If left untreated, it can become painful and result in poor function.

With proper treatment, there is an excellent prognosis for normal function and appearance. Treatment needs to begin shortly after birth and consists of a series of manipulations and immobilizations. Depending on the severity, treatment may take a few weeks to a few months, during which time the foot is brought closer to normal position by degrees, then immobilized by casting. The goal is to get the foot restored to the correct position by the time the child is old enough to walk. Surgery may be indicated in order to correct tendon length. Once this initial treatment is complete, it is imperative that your doctor’s treatment plan be followed, in order to prevent the foot from returning to its original position. Usually this involves the child wearing a brace during sleep and nap times. This brace usually consists of shoes that hold the feet in the correct position and spacing with a bar that connects the shoes.

With proper care and treatment, club foot can be successfully treated in about ninety percent of cases allowing the affected individual the ability to lead a normal life. If you have questions about this deformity or treatment options, please call our office at (281) 313-0090 in Sugarland, or (281) 342-8700 if you live in the Richmond area.