Clubfoot, medically known as talipes equinovarus, is a congenital deformity in which a baby is born with one or both feet turned inward and downward. The position of the foot is referred to as CAVE. C is for cavus or arch. A is for adductus, because the front of the foot angles inward. V is for varus, when the heel tilts inward. E is for equinus, where the ankle points down like a tiptoe. Clubfoot occurs in the womb when foot and calf muscles pull unevenly. This tightens tendons and ligaments and guides bones out of line as a child grows. A podiatrist can confirm clubfoot with an exam and implement the Ponseti method, which consists of a series of casts that correct the foot alignment. This is often followed by an Achilles tendon release and bracing to reduce relapse. If your child is born with a clubfoot, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist for help in managing this condition.
Congenital foot problems require immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Scott Amoss, DPM of Advanced Foot & Ankle Specialists. our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Congenital foot problems are deformities affecting the feet, toes, and/or ankles that children are born with. Some of these conditions have a genetic cause while others just happen. Some specific foot ailments that children may be born with include clubfeet, polydactyly/macrodactyly, and cleft foot. There are several other foot anomalies that can occur congenitally. What all of these conditions have in common is that a child may experience difficulty walking or performing everyday activities, as well as trouble finding footwear that fits their foot deformity. Some of these conditions are more serious than others. Consulting with a podiatrist as early as possible will help in properly diagnosing a child’s foot condition while getting the necessary treatment underway.
What are Causes of Congenital Foot Problem?
A congenital foot problem is one that happens to a child at birth. These conditions can be caused by a genetic predisposition, developmental or positional abnormalities during gestation, or with no known cause.
What are Symptoms of Congenital Foot Problems?
Symptoms vary by the congenital condition. Symptoms may consist of the following:
- Clubfoot, where tendons are shortened, bones are shaped differently, and the Achilles tendon is tight, causing the foot to point in and down. It is also possible for the soles of the feet to face each other.
- Polydactyly, which usually consists of a nubbin or small lump of tissue without a bone, a toe that is partially formed but has no joints, or an extra toe.
- Vertical talus, where the talus bone forms in the wrong position causing other bones in the foot to line up improperly, the front of the foot to point up, and the bottom of the foot to stiffen, with no arch, and to curve out.
- Tarsal coalition, when there is an abnormal connection of two or more bones in the foot leading to severe, rigid flatfoot.
- Cleft foot, where there are missing toes, a V-shaped cleft, and other anatomical differences.
- Macrodactyly, when the toes are abnormally large due to overgrowth of the underlying bone or soft tissue.
Treatment and Prevention
While there is nothing one can do to prevent congenital foot problems, raising awareness and receiving neonatal screenings are important. Early detection by taking your child to a podiatrist leads to the best outcome possible.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Whiting and Toms River, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
