Clubfoot Or Congenital Talipes Equinovarus Or
CtevClubfoot (CTEV) Treatment & Physiotherapy for Congenital Talipes Equinovarus
Clubfoot, also known as Congenital Talipes Equinovarus (CTEV), is a condition present at birth in which a baby’s foot is twisted inward and downward. The foot may appear smaller than normal, and the muscles of the calf may also be underdeveloped. Clubfoot affects the bones, muscles, tendons, and ligaments of the foot and ankle. Early diagnosis and treatment can help improve foot alignment, walking ability, and overall function.
Common signs and symptoms include:
- Foot turned inward and downward
- Stiffness in the foot and ankle
- Small or underdeveloped foot
- Tight calf muscles
- Difficulty placing the foot flat on the ground
- Deep crease on the inner side of the foot
- Limited ankle movement
- Prominent outer ankle bone
The exact cause of clubfoot is not always known, but possible causes include:
- Congenital muscle or bone abnormalities
- Family history or genetic factors
- Developmental problems during pregnancy
- Abnormal tendon positioning
- Neurological or spinal conditions
- Smoking during pregnancy may increase risk
Extrinsic Clubfoot
- Mild deformity
- More flexible and easier to correct
Intrinsic Clubfoot
- Severe and rigid deformity
- More resistant to treatment and may relapse
Diagnosis is usually done soon after birth through physical examination and foot assessment. Additional tests may include:
- X-rays
- Ultrasound
- CT scan
- MRI scan
Early physiotherapy treatment is important to improve foot position and mobility. Ponseti Method The Ponseti technique is one of the most effective treatments for clubfoot. It includes:
- Gentle stretching and manipulation
- Serial casting to gradually correct foot position
- Achilles tendon release if required
- Bracing to maintain correction
Stretching & Mobilization Gentle stretching exercises help improve flexibility of the foot and ankle. Strapping & Casting Special strapping techniques and plaster casting help maintain the corrected foot position during growth.
Exercises help improve muscle strength, balance, and walking ability as the child grows.
Walking and balance training help children achieve proper walking patterns and foot placement.
- Experienced pediatric physiotherapists
- Early intervention and customized treatment plans
- Specialized clubfoot rehabilitation programs
- Gentle and child-friendly treatment approach
- Focus on improving mobility and walking ability
- Parent education and home exercise guidance
- Long-term monitoring and follow-up care
If your child has clubfoot or foot alignment problems, early treatment can help achieve better recovery and improved mobility. Book your physiotherapy consultation today for expert clubfoot (CTEV) treatment and pediatric rehabilitation care.