Clubfoot is a birth condition that causes one or both feet to turn inward and downward. Also called talipes equinovarus, it develops while the baby is growing in the womb. The affected foot may appear twisted, with the heel turned inward and the toes pointing down. Although clubfoot can look concerning, early treatment often helps children develop a stable, functional foot. Recognizing the condition early allows families to begin care and understand the treatment options available.

The exact cause of clubfoot is not always known, but genetics can play an important role. A baby has a higher risk when a parent or sibling has had the condition. Clubfoot may also develop along with certain neuromuscular or congenital conditions. Symptoms include an inward-turning foot, a smaller calf muscle, and limited foot movement. The foot may feel stiff rather than flexible. Clubfoot usually does not cause pain in newborns, but without treatment, it can make standing and walking difficult as the child grows.

Treatment often begins soon after birth, when the foot is easier to guide into a better position. The Ponseti method is commonly used. It involves gentle, repeated stretching followed by a series of casts. Each cast gradually moves the foot closer to its correct alignment. Some babies need a minor procedure to lengthen the Achilles tendon. After casting, a special brace helps maintain the correction and lowers the chance of the foot turning inward again.

A podiatrist examines the baby’s foot, assesses its flexibility, and helps coordinate appropriate care. Follow-up visits are important because the foot can relapse as a child grows. Parents should follow casting and bracing instructions carefully and report skin irritation or concerns promptly. With timely treatment, many children with clubfoot can walk and participate in everyday activities. If your child has been born with clubfoot, it is suggested that you include a podiatrist on your health care team to ensure the best results possible. 

Congenital foot problems require immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact One of our doctors of Sims & Associates Podiatry. Our practitioners can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Congenital foot problems are deformities affecting the feet, toes, and/or ankles that children are born with. Some of these conditions have a genetic cause while others just happen. Some specific foot ailments that children may be born with include clubfeet, polydactyly/macrodactyly, and cleft foot. There are several other foot anomalies that can occur congenitally. What all of these conditions have in common is that a child may experience difficulty walking or performing everyday activities, as well as trouble finding footwear that fits their foot deformity. Some of these conditions are more serious than others. Consulting with a podiatrist as early as possible will help in properly diagnosing a child’s foot condition while getting the necessary treatment underway.

What are Causes of Congenital Foot Problem?

A congenital foot problem is one that happens to a child at birth. These conditions can be caused by a genetic predisposition, developmental or positional abnormalities during gestation, or with no known cause.

What are Symptoms of Congenital Foot Problems?

Symptoms vary by the congenital condition. Symptoms may consist of the following:

• Clubfoot, where tendons are shortened, bones are shaped differently, and the Achilles tendon is tight, causing the foot to point in and down. It is also possible for the soles of the feet to face each other.
• Polydactyly, which usually consists of a nubbin or small lump of tissue without a bone, a toe that is partially formed but has no joints, or an extra toe.
• Vertical talus, where the talus bone forms in the wrong position causing other bones in the foot to line up improperly, the front of the foot to point up, and the bottom of the foot to stiffen, with no arch, and to curve out.
• Tarsal coalition, when there is an abnormal connection of two or more bones in the foot leading to severe, rigid flatfoot.
• Cleft foot, where there are missing toes, a V-shaped cleft, and other anatomical differences.
• Macrodactyly, when the toes are abnormally large due to overgrowth of the underlying bone or soft tissue.

Treatment and Prevention

While there is nothing one can do to prevent congenital foot problems, raising awareness and receiving neonatal screenings are important. Early detection by taking your child to a podiatrist leads to the best outcome possible.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Poughkeepsie, Fishkill, and Highland, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.