What is clubfoot?

Clubfoot is a condition children are born with that causes one or both feet to turn inward and downward. It affects the bones, muscles and tendons of the foot and lower leg.

This condition is not painful for babies, and treatment can begin early. Most children who receive early treatment are able to run, play and stay active as they grow.

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Clubfoot: What Parents Should Know

  • Clubfoot may affect one or both feet.
  • It can sometimes be detected on an ultrasound before birth.
  • Clubfoot is not painful for babies.
  • Treatment often includes stretching, casting and bracing.
  • Most children treated early can run, play and function normally.

What does clubfoot look like?

With all cases, heels will point downward while the front of the foot points inward.

There are additional signs if only one foot is affected:

  • Calf muscle is smaller on affected leg
  • Short and wide foot on affected side
  • Leg on the affected side may be shorter than the other side

What causes clubfoot?

In most cases, the exact cause of clubfoot is unknown. A genetic component is likely.

Doctors can determine the cause of clubfoot in some cases. Causes include birth defects, medical conditions or awkward foot position in utero.

Can clubfoot be diagnosed before birth?

Sometimes, yes, ultrasounds can help diagnose this condition. But most of the time, clubfoot is often diagnosed at birth based on the shape and positioning of an infant’s foot. 

X-rays are rare and usually not necessary.

How is a clubfoot treated?

Treatment depends on the extent of your child’s condition. Non-surgical options to treat clubfeet include:

  • The Ponseti method (which includes stretching and casting)
  • Taping or splinting the affected area
  • Braces
  • Physical therapy

Surgery is only necessary when other treatments are ineffective. The type of surgery depends on the extent of their condition.

All physicians at Connecticut Children’s are certified and trained in the Ponseti method of care. Doctors at Connecticut Children’s can determine the right plan to treat your child’s clubfoot.

What is the Ponseti method?

The Ponseti method is a common treatment for clubfoot that uses gentle stretching and a series of casts to gradually move a baby’s foot into the correct position. A new cast is applied as the foot improves over time.

For some babies, treatment may also include a minor procedure to lengthen the heel cord (Achilles tendon). After casting is complete, babies typically wear a special brace to help maintain the correction as they grow.

Connecticut Children’s pediatric orthopedic specialists are trained in the Ponseti method and work with families throughout treatment and follow-up.

Want to see what clubfoot treatment can look like for a family? 

>>Read John and Sam's story about two brothers treated for clubfoot at Connecticut Children's.