The Future After Clubfoot

A clubfoot diagnosis for a newborn is often extremely difficult emotionally for new parents. Fear, anxiety, stress—these are all common reactions for any parent. A congenital deformity like clubfoot only makes it harder.

However, this is not the end. While it is normal to feel scared, there is also great hope! Clubfoot is a treatable birth defect, and with expert care and commitment from parents, your child will grow up with feet that look and function—for all practical purposes—completely normally.

Yes, the first few years will involve a lot of visits to the doctor, and a lot of “homework” for mom and dad. For most of the first year, baby will need weekly checkups to have their feet and legs stretched and then casted into proper alignment. After the last casting procedure, your child will need to wear a special brace according to a consistent schedule for the next 3-4 years. This kind of commitment is essential to prevent the clubfoot from returning.

However, the future after clubfoot is extremely bright! If your child begins treatment shortly after birth, and that treatment is provided skillfully, there should be no developmental delays, no pain, and no disability or handicap now or in the future. Your child will grow up, run, play, and perform all the same activities that they would have been able to do if they had never had clubfoot in the first place.

And while the journey may be challenging, it can also be greatly rewarding—perhaps the most amazing experience of your life. You will be bonding with your little one, and warmed by the knowledge that the care you provide each day is helping to build a better life and future for your child. You will have the opportunity to develop lifelong relationships with a community you never knew existed—an entire network of doctors, educators, fellow parents, and community members who understand what you’re going through and can provide support, education, fellowship, and friendship.

If your child has clubfoot—even if they’re already a little older—you are not alone and there is hope. The Southern California Foot & Ankle Specialists are here to support you on your journey with excellent medical care and compassionate support. Give us a call today at (949) 364-9255.