Clubfoot is a birth defect in which one or both feet are turned upward and inward, with the outer edge of the foot facing downward. The reason this happens is that the connective tendons between the foot and legs are abnormally tight and short. The condition is always cause for a referral to a pediatric orthopedist, who will explore all nonsurgical options prior to considering surgery. Thankfully, today a child born with clubfoot can receive expert treatment that will ensure full functionality later in life, with no sign of the previously apparent birth defect. This painless condition is sometimes diagnosed via ultrasound prior to a child being born, with more boys affected by it than girls. Left untreated, the deformity can lead to physical discomfort and social stigma. The Ponseti method of treatment is the standard form of nonsurgical care for infants with clubfoot. This includes a period of physical manipulation where the foot is carefully stretched into position and held there with a thigh-to-toe cast. After about six weeks, the cast can be removed and a minor procedure called an Achilles tenotomy may be performed to lessen tightness in the heel cord.
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