Clubfoot is a congenital condition that shows up in a rather large number of kids with estimates indicating that one out of every thousand newborns will eventually exhibit the disorder. It is characterized by an inward turning of the ankle joint that can cause the soles of the feet to face inward. The condition can affect one or both feet and early detection and treatment is the best way to get it under control.

Clubfoot can occur with other childhood foot problems that can complicate the diagnosis and treatment, especially when potential neurological and muscular issues are taken into account.

2 methods that are commonly used to treat clubfoot include the following:

• The Ponseti method—This is a widely used method to treat clubfoot that involves stretching and physical therapy and growth redirection using casting that gradually takes place over many months.
• Surgical repair and bracing—At the conclusion of the casting part of the procedure the heel cord will need to be released with a small incision. Braces may be needed for some time after the surgery to keep the deformity from reasserting itself.

If your child is showing symptoms of clubfoot, it’s best to have them checked out by your foot doctor to get an early start on the treatment. At Your Next Step, our team of board-certified podiatrists has access to advanced technologies, along with years of experience, to help diagnose and treat a variety of foot and ankle problems, including sports injuries, joint pain, toe deformities, nail fungus, chronic tendon pain, and skin problems. Dr. Eric Ricefield, Dr. Mark Yagodich and Dr. Aliza V. Eisen provide high-quality foot and ankle care to patients in the greater Philadelphia area at our offices conveniently located in Ardmore, Paoli, and Downingtown. Please contact us for more information or to schedule an appointment.