Treatment of clubfoot in Dnipro

Clubfoot is a condition in which a person’s leg or foot is bent to the side or inward from its normal position when walking or at rest. It may cause discomfort or pain when walking, improper distribution of load on the leg, fatigue, and tension in the leg and foot.

It is important to consult a specialist to prevent further deterioration of the condition and improve the quality of your life.

The causes of clubfoot in children

In most cases, childhood clubfoot is associated with the development of the legs and feet during growth. The likelihood of developing clubfoot increases if there are:

• the presence of clubfoot in one or both parents,
• infectious diseases during the mother’s pregnancy,
• complications during pregnancy,
• toxic effects on the mother’s body during pregnancy,
• flat feet, hallux valgus, and other foot deformities,
• wearing uncomfortable or inappropriate shoes,
• lack of physical activity and exercise for the legs and feet, which weakens the muscles and ligaments
• foot injuries, as well as chronic diseases or conditions that affect the structure and function of the foot,
• disorders in the development of the osteoarticular system.

If you suspect clubfoot in a child, it is critical to consult an orthopedic doctor. When clubfoot is diagnosed in children, treatment can correct and prevent future consequences.

The causes of clubfoot in adults

Clubfoot in adults can be caused by:

• foot deformities, such as flat feet, torticollis, or hallux valgus,
• leg or foot injuries that affect proper gait,
• an uneven development of the muscles of the leg or foot, which leads to abnormal gait,
• improper healing of bones after fractures,
• cerebral paralysis,
• rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis or other joint diseases that cause changes in the structure and function of the joints,
• wearing uncomfortable or inappropriate shoes due to improper distribution of the load on the foot,
• systemic connective tissue diseases, for example, myelopathy, myelodystrophy, Larsen syndrome,
• age-related loss of elasticity and strength of muscles and joints.

When clubfoot is diagnosed in adults, the treatment is selected by an orthopedic doctor in a team with a rehabilitation specialist to obtain an effective correction of clubfoot.

The types of clubfoot

If clubfoot is associated with developmental anomalies of the foot or leg, then it is congenital clubfoot, the treatment of which begins with conservative techniques in childhood.

Clubfoot that is caused by injury, disease, or other factors is considered acquired clubfoot.

Depending on the direction of displacement of the foot, clubfoot can be:

• Valgus clubfoot: the foot appears to be tilted toward the inside of the leg.
• Varus clubfoot: the foot appears to be tilted towards the outer part of the leg.
• Equinus clubfoot:  the foot is turned inward and downward.
• Torsion clubfoot: manifested by the rotation of the shin forward.
• Supination: the turning of the foot with the heel forward.
• Abduction: the reversion of the foot until the sole turns outward.

To accurately determine the nature of the deformity and develop an individual treatment plan, it is recommended to make an appointment with an orthopedic doctor.

The consequences of clubfoot

Clubfoot can have a variety of health consequences for a person, including:

• Pain in the legs and lower back due to improper distribution of the load on the foot and joints.
• Foot deformities, such as flat feet, protruding bones, or joints, which impairs the functionality of the foot.
• Increased risk of injury due to uneven distribution of load on the foot.
• The curvature of the spine due to changes in posture and uneven distribution of load on the body.
• Impaired walking and balance, which can lead to falls and injury.
• Psychological problems such as depression and anxiety due to persistent pain, limited movement, and foot deformities.

It is important to see a doctor at the first sign of clubfoot to minimize the consequences.

Methods for diagnosing clubfoot at N1 Clinic in Dnipro

When visiting N1 Clinic, the doctor will examine the foot and leg, evaluate the structure of the foot, and identify deformities, asymmetries, and other signs of clubfoot. X-rays of the foot and lower leg allow the orthopedic doctor to identify deformities, and changes in bone structure and evaluate the angles of the deformity.

If necessary, your doctor will prescribe a computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan to examine in detail the structure of the bones, joints, ligaments, and muscles to accurately determine the causes of clubfoot. EMG testing may also be necessary to identify abnormalities in muscle tone or function that may be associated with clubfoot.

After determining the type and degree of clubfoot, the doctor will select an individual treatment plan and announce its cost, which depends on the complexity of the case and the required treatment method.

The treatment methods for clubfoot in children and adults at N1 Clinic

N1 Clinic offers all conservative and surgical treatment methods used by modern medicine.

Orthopedic doctors use an integrated approach when treating clubfoot:

• Physical therapy is a set of exercises to strengthen the muscles of the feet and legs, correct posture, and improve balance and coordination of movements.
• Wearing orthopedic shoes or insoles will help to properly distribute the load on the foot and reduce pressure on deformed areas.
• Massage and rehabilitation are used to improve blood circulation, reduce pain, and improve the functionality of the foot.

If the foot deformity is severe or does not improve with conservative methods, surgical treatment may be required.

A treatment plan will be developed individually for each patient after a full examination and consultation with N1 Clinic specialists.

The prevention of clubfoot

Some recommendations that may help prevent or slow down the development of this condition:

• regular exercises to strengthen the muscles of the feet and legs,
• wearing shoes with proper support for the foot, good cushioning, and a comfortable fit,
• maintaining correct posture,
• weight control.

Early identification and correction of foot deformities will help prevent the development of clubfoot. Therefore, do not forget about regular examinations with an orthopedic doctor.

The advantages of clubfoot treatment at N1 Clinic in Dnipro

Our clinic has orthopedic doctors with more than 20 years of experience in medicine who are ready to provide both conservative and surgical treatment for children and adults.

We select only an individual treatment plan, involving the rehabilitation specialists of our clinic, to achieve the fastest and most effective result. Our specialists never prescribe surgery if the problem can be corrected by other methods. However, if surgical treatment is necessary, we provide a guarantee for the operation performed if the patient follows all the doctor’s instructions and attends follow-up visits.