Understanding Clubfoot

Clubfoot or congenital talipes equinovarus is a common birth condition in which a baby is born with one or both feet turned inward and downward Without treatment children walk on the sides or tops of their feet and develop pain calluses and difficulty wearing normal footwear The Ponseti method is now the preferred global standard for clubfoot correction and can achieve excellent function in most children when started early

Principles of the Ponseti Method

The Ponseti technique relies on gentle manual manipulation and weekly plaster casting to gradually correct each component of the deformity followed by a small procedure to lengthen the tight Achilles tendon and then prolonged bracing to prevent recurrence Treatment usually begins in the first weeks of life when ligaments and tendons are most supple Studies show that with proper application success rates exceed ninety percent with children achieving flexible pain free plantigrade feet that fit normal shoes

Casting Phase

During the casting phase the orthopaedic team gently stretches the baby foot towards a more normal position and applies a long leg cast from toes to groin to hold that correction Each week the cast is removed the foot is further manipulated and a new cast is applied gradually correcting cavus adductus and varus components while respecting the subtalar joint axis This process usually takes about six to ten casts depending on severity and response

Achilles Tenotomy and Bracing

Once the foot is well aligned except for persistent equinus a minor procedure called percutaneous Achilles tenotomy is performed under local or light anaesthesia to lengthen the tendon After this a final cast is applied for about three weeks until the tendon heals in its new lengthened position Following cast removal the child begins to wear special boots attached to a bar full time for several weeks then during sleep and naps until about four years of age to prevent relapse Consistent brace use is essential for long term success

Why Choose Livasa Hospitals for Clubfoot Care

Livasa Hospitals provide Ponseti based clubfoot clinics with paediatric orthopaedic specialists and physiotherapists trained in the method Parents across Punjab receive hands on instruction in cast care brace fitting and stretching exercises with regular follow up to detect and treat any early signs of recurrence ensuring that children grow up with functional cosmetically acceptable feet

Livasa Hospitals Punjab Network Contact

Livasa Healthcare Group Network of Multi speciality Hospitals in Punjab
Corporate Office Phase 8 Industrial Area Sector 73 Punjab 160071 India