Clubfoot in Children

​What is Congenital Talipes Equino Varus (CTEV) / Club Foot?

Congenital Talipes Equino Varus (CTEV) for short is commonly known as clubfoot. This is a condition where a child presents with either one or both feet pointing downwards and turns inwards.  There are two types of CTEV: postural and structural.

• Postural CTEV involves muscle imbalance and / or tightness. There is usually no bone or joint involvement.
• Structural CTEV involves the bone and joints of the foot, where the child's foot cannot be passively put through a full range of motion.

​Signs and Symptoms of Club Foot

• Feet turning inwards
• Tightness in calf muscles
• For structural: the foot has decreased joint range of movement.

Causes of Club Foot

• Postural: packing disorder (first born baby; big baby >4kg at birth; decrease fluid surrounding the baby)
• Structural: The cause is unknown and in some, it can be genetics.

Complications

• Abnormal walking pattern.
• Foot pain due to abnormal foot positions.

​Tests and Diagnosis for Club Foot

• Orthopaedic assessments

​Treatment Options for Club Foot

• Postural: Self resolving. In some cases, physiotherapy intervention for stretching and stimulation to the feet is required.
• Structural: Serial casting and manipulation with minimal surgery if neccessary. In severe cases, surgery may be required. This is followed by maintenance with special boots and bar till 4 years of age.