Did you know that one in every 1,000 babies is born with Congenital Talipes Equinovarus? Also known as clubfoot, this is a congenital disability that affects the foot and ankle.
This post will discuss the causes of clubfoot, symptoms, and treatment options. We will also provide information on managing this condition once your baby is born.
Types of Congenital Talipes Equinovarus (Clubfoot)
There are three types of congenital talipes equinovarus:
Talipes Equinovarus Adductus
This type is the most common and is characterized by the foot being turned inwards. The Achilles tendon is often shortened, and the calf muscles may be smaller than usual.
Talipes Equinovarus Calcaneovalgus
This type is less common and characterized by a heel turning out and an inward ankle movement. The Achilles tendon may be shortened or absent, and the calf muscles may be smaller than usual.
Talipes Equinovarus Varus
This type is rare and characterized by a turning out of the foot and an inward ankle movement. The Achilles tendon is often shortened, and the calf muscles may be smaller than usual.
Clubfoot Deformities
There are also three types of clubfoot deformities:
- Flexible clubfoot – This type can be easily corrected with manipulation and casting. It occurs when there is looseness in the ligaments around the bones in the foot.
- Rigid clubfoot – This type cannot be corrected with manipulation and casting. It occurs when there is stiffness in the ligaments around the bones in the foot.
- Congenital talipes equinovarus (CTEV) combines flexible and rigid clubfoot deformity. You can usually correct it with surgery.
Symptoms
Symptoms of congenital talipes equinovarus may include:
- The foot is turned inwards
- Heel is turned outwards
- The ankle is turned inwards
- Shortened Achilles tendon
- Smaller calf muscles than usual
If you are pregnant and think your child may have a clubfoot, it is essential to see a doctor as soon as possible. Treatment for congenital talipes equinovarus should begin as early as possible to improve the chances of a successful outcome.
Treatment
Early treatment may include:
- Manipulation and casting – This will be done by a physical therapist or orthopedic surgeon. The foot will be manipulated into the correct position and then cast to hold it there. You may also use a brace to keep the foot in the correct position.
- Surgery – This may be necessary if the deformity is severe or does not improve with manipulation and casting. Surgery may involve cutting and reattaching the muscles, tendons, and ligaments around the ankle and foot. You may also use a metal plate and screws to hold the bones in place.
- Physical therapy – After treatment, physical therapy may be recommended to help improve range of motion and strength in the ankle and foot.
Who Is at Risk of Congenital Talipes Equinovarus?
The disease is more prevalent in boys than girls. Clubfoot affects twice as many boys as girls. A family history of clubfoot, as well as being born on the wrong foot, raises the risk of developing it. Both feet are afflicted in half of all infants with clubfoot.
Conclusion
Clubfoot can cause problems with walking and moving around. Treatment options include physical therapy, braces, and surgery. Early diagnosis and treatment are important for the best possible outcome.
If you or your child has been diagnosed with congenital talipes equinovarus, be sure to talk to your doctor about the best treatment plan for you.
