Clubfoot is a foot deformity in which one or both feet turn inward. This happens because the connecting structures between the leg and foot are short and too tight causing the foot to twist inward. It is unknown what causes clubfoot. However, there is an increased risk in families with a history of clubfeet.
Sometimes the bottom of a child’s foot faces the other foot or even upward. Typically there is a deep crease on the bottom of a child’s foot as well as behind the heel.
Clubfoot is not painful for a baby, but if left untreated, the foot will stay in this position, and your child will not be able to walk normally as he or she gets older.
Treatments
Treatments
Doctors at Riley at IU Health use a three-step process to treat clubfoot:
- Casting. Using the Ponseti method, your child’s orthopedic doctor will apply a cast weekly. Each week, your child’s foot will be stretched and repositioned and a cast applied until the foot is improved. During this time, you should follow the doctor's guidelines for caring for your child's clubfoot cast.
- Tenotomy. After casting, your child will have a procedure called an Achilles (or heel cord) tenotomy. This is a minor procedure in which the tendon that is too tight is cut. The incision is so small it does not require stitches. Your child will then be casted again. This time the cast will stay on for three weeks to give the incision and tendon time to heal.
- Bracing. Once the three weeks have past, your child will have the cast removed and will be fitted for Mitchell Bar and Shoes. These are the braces that your child will need to wear to ensure the foot will stay in the correct position. It is very important that you place your child in the shoes and the bar every day. Failure to use the prescribed braces often results in clubfoot recurrence. As your child grows, he or she will receive larger shoes when needed during checkup appointments with his or her orthopedic doctor.
Key Points to Remember
Key Points to Remember
- Clubfoot is a foot deformity in which one or both feet turn inward.
- Clubfoot occurs because the connecting structures between the leg and foot are short and too tight causing the foot to twist inward.
- It is unknown what causes clubfoot. However, there is an increased risk in families with a history of clubfeet.
- Doctors at Riley at IU Health use a three-step process to treat clubfoot: casting, tenotomy and bracing.
Support Services & Resources
Support Services & Resources
Visit the trusted websites below to learn more about clubfoot and find support groups in your area.
Riley at IU Health offers a broad range of supportive services to make life better for families who choose us for their children's care.
The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons shares information on the treatment of clubfoot, including helpful tips for bracewear.
Learn more about what causes clubfoot on the March of Dimes website.
Locations
Locations
Locations
In addition to our primary hospital location at the Academic Health Center in Indianapolis, IN, we have convenient locations to better serve our communities throughout the state.
Riley Pediatric Orthopedics & Sports Medicine
575 Riley Hospital Dr
Indianapolis, IN 46202