Clubfoot (talipes)

Approximately one in 1,000 babies in the UK are born with a condition known as Congenital Talipes Equinovarus, Talipes for short.

This condition is also known as clubfoot.

The foot or feet are turned downwards and inwards at birth.

Babies are not in pain with this condition, but left untreated, it will cause long term disability.

Ponseti method

Here at South Tees, we use the Ponseti method of correction, which is the international gold standard treatment choice.

This involves gentle manipulation of the foot which is then held in position with a plaster cast, which goes from the toes, to the top of the thigh.

This is changed weekly until a good correction has been achieved. Some babies have a small operation called a tenotomy to help achieve the best position.

Rehabilitation

Once the foot position has been corrected, boots and bar must be worn at night to stop the deformity returning.

Babies are monitored regularly in our specialist clinic which is held in the rehabilitation centre at The James Cook University Hospital.

Contact details

Email: [email protected]