CLUBFOOT
OVERVIEW
Clubfoot is the term used for foot abnormalities of a newborn. In this congenital defect, baby's foot is twisted out of shape or position and the tendons connecting the muscles to the bone are shorter than usual. Clubfoot is a fairly common birth defect and is usually an isolated problem for an otherwise healthy newborn.
Symptoms
A clubfoot child has the following symptoms:, here's what it might look like
- The foot may be turned so severely that it actually looks as if it's upside down.
- The calf muscles in the affected leg are usually underdeveloped.
- The top of the foot is usually twisted downward and inward, increasing the arch and turning the heel inward.
- The affected foot may be up to 1/2 inch (about 1 centimeter) shorter than the other foot.
- Despite its look, however, clubfoot itself doesn't cause any discomfort or pain.
Causes
Though the cause of clubfoot is not known, it is believed that the condition may be passed down through families in some cases. Risk factors include a family history of the disorder and being male.
Treatments
- Positioning the foot in correct direction while using a cast.
- Early the treatment, better chance of recovery.
- Stretching and recasting every week in gentlest way is a step to improve the foot position.
- Because there is no clear cause for clubfoot, pregnant women can avoid doing certain things to limit the risk of birth defects - No smoking or spending time in smoky environments, No intake of alcohol, Avoiding drugs not approved by doctor
