POSITIONAL CLUBFOOT : All you need to know|Clubfoot type foot| Dr Ratnav Ratan|CTEV treatment

Positional clubfoot in newborns, also known as positional talipes, is a condition where the baby’s foot appears to be turned inward. This can often be mistaken for true clubfoot, but there are key differences between the two.
*Positional Clubfoot vs. True Clubfoot:*
1. *Foot Flexibility:*
- In positional clubfoot, the foot is flexible and can be easily moved into a normal position by hand. This flexibility indicates that the structures of the foot are normal but have been positioned incorrectly due to the baby's position in the womb.
- In true clubfoot, the foot is stiff and rigid. Attempts to move the foot into a normal position are met with resistance.
2. *Heel Position:*
- In positional clubfoot, the heel is typically in a normal position.
- In true clubfoot, the heel is often elevated and turned inward, contributing to the more severe deformity.
3. *Correctability:*
- Positional clubfoot is correctable with gentle stretching exercises or sometimes just with normal handling. The condition often resolves on its own within a few months as the baby grows and starts to move more.
- True clubfoot does not correct on its own and requires medical intervention, which may include casting, bracing, or surgery.
4. *Foot Appearance:*
- In positional clubfoot, the foot may appear turned in, but the structure of the foot, including the bones and muscles, are normal.
- In true clubfoot, the bones, muscles, and tendons are abnormally formed and positioned.
*Natural History of Positional Clubfoot:*
Positional clubfoot is a benign condition and generally does not cause long-term problems. The condition is usually diagnosed at birth during a physical examination. In most cases, the foot will gradually return to a normal position without any intervention as the baby begins to kick and move their legs more frequently. Parents can assist this process by gently stretching the baby's foot into a more natural position during diaper changes and other routine care activities.
Pediatricians may recommend some simple at-home exercises to help, but in most cases, no formal treatment is required. Regular check-ups will ensure the foot is progressing as expected. By the time the child begins to walk, the foot typically appears normal, and the child will have a normal gait.
Parents should not worry if their newborn has positional clubfoot, as it is a common and self-limiting condition. Unlike true clubfoot, which requires medical intervention, positional clubfoot corrects itself naturally. It's important to monitor the baby's development and follow any guidance from healthcare providers to ensure proper foot growth and alignment.
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