Club foot is a deformed ankle and foot and is present at birth. The ankle is twisted, the foot points down and inwards and the soles of the feet face each other.
This happens because the tendons on the inside of the leg have shortened, the bones are abnormally shaped and the Achilles tendon (at the back of the heel) has tightened.
In 50% of cases of club foot, both the feet are affected (bilateral).
Some people refer to club foot as talipes; in fact, there are two types of talipes:
- congenital talipes equinovarus (club foot), and
- talipes calcaneovalgus, where the foot points upwards and outwards.
These pages focus on club foot.
How common is it?
Club foot affects one in every 1,000 babies and occurs more often in boys than girls. It is one of the most common abnormalities at birth.
If you have had a child with club foot, there is approximately a one in 30 chance that your second child will also be affected.
What is the cause?
In most cases, the cause of club foot is unknown. Occasionally it runs in the family.
Can it be treated?
Some mild cases of the condition may not need treating at all. More severe cases will need corrective treatment, ideally soon after the child has been born.
Club foot is usually treated using a technique called the Ponseti method, where the baby's foot is manipulated into position and put in a cast. Boots with a bar have to be worn. See the Treatment section, above, for more information.
How serious is it?
Club foot is not painful and early treatment is usually effective in correcting the abnormal position of the feet. It is important to review the condition regularly as the child may have a relapse and need more treatment.
