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Clubfoot

Clubfoot is a condition in which your foot is twisted into an unnatural shape or position, usually from birth. Clubfoot can affect one or both feet and is relatively common, although the cause of the condition is unknown.

Despite being of unknown cause, there are a few factors that can increase the risk of clubfoot in a newborn. Risk factors include:

• Male gender
• Family history of clubfoot
• Smoking during pregnancy

Clubfoot is most easily treated soon after birth, while a newborn’s bones are flexible and heal quickly. While the condition does not always disappear entirely, it can be treated in a number of ways, including:

• Stretching the foot into the correct position and casting it
• Stretching the foot into the correct position and taping it
• Surgical options

While there is no known way to prevent clubfoot in newborns entirely, avoiding smoking, alcohol and drugs while pregnant can minimize the risk.