Clubfoot: A comprehensive guide on causes, symptoms, and treatment

A clubfoot is an orthopedic problem that can affect both children and adults. In this article, we will discuss the causes, symptoms, and treatment methods for this condition. Read the following guide to learn more about clubfoot and how to deal with it.

Clubfoot is a deformity of the foot that involves the outward deviation of the heel and toes. As a result, a person with this foot deformity primarily rests on the outer edge of the foot while walking. In the case of equinovarus, the deformity is even more advanced because it is combined with other abnormalities, such as the upward bending of the foot (equinus) and shortening of the Achilles tendon.

Congenital clubfoot is a foot deformity that occurs in newborns and young children. It is a combination of congenital varus and equinus, leading to the abnormal positioning of the heel, toes, and shortening of the Achilles tendon. Congenital clubfoot can be caused by various factors, such as genetics or the environment.

Characteristics of clubfoot: what does clubfoot look like?

The appearance of clubfoot differs from the normal appearance of the foot. In the case of clubfoot, the heel is turned outward, and the toes are bent upward. Additionally, the Achilles tendon is shortened, which makes it difficult for a person with this deformity to rest the whole foot on the ground while walking. Instead, they primarily rely on the outer edge of the foot.

Types of clubfeet: differences and similarities

There are different types of clubfeet, which can be divided into typical and atypical clubfeet. Typical clubfeet are characterized by the outward deviation of the heel, upward bending of the toes, and shortening of the Achilles tendon. Atypical clubfeet may have additional deformities, such as downward bending of the foot (varus) or other abnormalities in the foot’s structure.

In the case of clubfoot types, there are also clubfeet with varying degrees of severity. A mild clubfoot may be less noticeable and cause fewer walking problems, while a severe clubfoot may lead to significant mobility issues and require more advanced treatment.

Clubfoot in children

Clubfoot in children is a congenital foot deformity that can affect a child's development. In the case of congenital clubfoot in children, the heel and toes are turned outward, which can lead to difficulty walking and pain. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for ensuring the proper development of the child's foot.

Clubfoot in children: what are the symptoms?

Symptoms of congenital clubfoot in children include:

Outward deviation of the heel
Upward bending of the toes
Shortening of the Achilles tendon
Relying on the outer edge of the foot while walking

Parents should watch for these symptoms of clubfoot in their children and consult a doctor if they suspect the presence of this deformity.

Diagnosis of congenital clubfoot in children

The diagnosis of congenital clubfoot in children includes a physical examination and, in some cases, additional imaging tests such as an X-ray. The doctor will assess the foot's alignment, range of motion, and any shortening of the Achilles tendon. If clubfoot is diagnosed, or if multiple clubfeet are detected, the doctor may recommend appropriate treatment.

Treatment of clubfoot in children: Ponseti method and other techniques

The treatment of clubfoot in children may involve different methods depending on the severity of the deformity. One of the most popular and effective methods is the Ponseti method. This technique involves gradually correcting the foot's position using plaster casts, which are changed every few days. Once the desired correction is achieved, the child wears special orthopedic shoes that keep the foot in the correct position.

Other techniques for treating clubfoot in children may include:

Physiotherapy
Braces
Foot muscle strengthening exercises

It is important that the treatment is tailored to the child’s individual needs and conducted under the supervision of a specialist. Early treatment can significantly improve foot function and prevent further complications.

Causes of congenital clubfoot: genetics or environment?

The causes of congenital clubfoot may be related to both genetics and the environment. The congenital defect can be caused by genetic mutations that affect the development of the foot, but it can also result from environmental factors, such as improper positioning during fetal development. In some cases, congenital defects in children may be the result of a combination of both factors. When comparing the influence of genetics and the environment, it is difficult to definitively determine which one has a greater impact on the development of congenital clubfoot.

Varus foot positioning: what are the causes?

Varus foot positioning can be caused by various factors, such as:

Improper footwear
Overweight or obesity
Weakness of the foot muscles
Postural disorders

Varus foot positioning can lead to pain, fatigue, and other issues related to walking. In the case of a varus heel, excessive load may also occur on the outer part of the foot, which can lead to further complications.

Hollow and varus foot: causes and effects

Hollow and varus foot is a condition in which both the arch of the foot is elevated (hollow foot) and the heel is tilted outward (varus). It can be caused by various factors, such as:

Congenital foot deformities
Neurological disorders
Muscular disorders

Hollow and varus feet in adults can lead to pain, difficulty walking, and other problems related to foot function. In some cases, both conditions may influence each other, leading to further complications. Treatment may include therapies aimed at correcting both varus and hollow foot.

Treatment of varus foot

The treatment of clubfoot can involve different methods depending on the causes, severity, and age of the patient. The goal of treatment is to improve foot function, reduce pain, and prevent further complications. In some cases, surgical treatment may be necessary.

Varus feet can lead to pain, fatigue, and other problems related to walking. Treatment of varus foot should begin when the symptoms interfere with daily activities, cause pain, or increase the risk of further complications. Potential benefits of treatment include improved foot function, reduced pain, and prevention of further health issues.

Surgical treatment of clubfoot: when is it necessary?

Surgical treatment of clubfoot may be necessary when other methods, such as manual therapy, exercises, or orthopedic insoles, do not yield the expected results. Criteria for deciding on surgery include the severity of the deformity, the patient's age, and the impact of the varus on quality of life. The surgical procedure may involve correcting bones, tendons, or ligaments to restore the proper alignment of the foot.

Treatment of clubfoot with the Ponseti method

The Ponseti method is one of the most effective and widely used treatments for clubfoot, especially in children. It involves gradually correcting the foot deformity using special casts and exercises. The effectiveness of the Ponseti method is as high as 90-95%, and potential side effects are minimal. Treatment with this method typically begins in the first few weeks of life and lasts several months. In some cases, a minor surgical procedure may be required to achieve optimal results.

Can you run with a varus foot?

Yes, people with varus feet can safely engage in running, but it requires adjusting running technique and choosing the appropriate footwear. Here are some tips that can help when running with this condition:

Consultation with a doctor or physiotherapist – before starting running, it’s a good idea to consult a specialist who will assess the condition of your feet and advise on the safest exercises and running techniques.
Choosing the right footwear – individuals with varus feet should opt for running shoes with extra arch support and heel stabilization to help maintain the proper foot alignment while running.
Strengthening exercises – regular strengthening exercises for the foot, calf, and hip muscles can help maintain balance and reduce the risk of injury while running.
Gradually increasing training intensity – people with varus feet should start with short and gentle runs, gradually increasing their intensity and distance to avoid overloading the joints and muscles.

In conclusion, running with a varus foot is possible, but it requires the right approach, including adjusting technique and footwear. Consulting with a specialist and doing regular strengthening exercises can help maintain foot health and enjoy running without worrying about injuries.

Minimalist footwear and varus foot

One of the actions mentioned earlier that helps combat this condition is using minimalist footwear. Whether you can wear such footwear depends on the degree of deformity – if it's severe, it’s worth consulting a specialist or doctor beforehand.

Minimalist footwear promotes the natural movement of the foot, which is particularly important during the early years when the foot is still developing. This means that even if a person has a genetic predisposition to varus foot, the progression of the condition may be slower.