Center for Clubfoot

Why LuskinOIC for Clubfoot?

At the Center for Clubfoot, our renowned specialists and team will be there to help you and your child with a full range of treatment and support services, including:

• Onsite diagnostic imaging, such as X-rays
• Clubfoot treatment customized to your child
• Guidance, care and support during and after each phase of treatment
• Surgery, if necessary

Our Approach

At LuskinOIC, our preferred treatment for clubfoot is a 3-stage process called the Ponseti method which involves stretching, casting and bracing. Research has shown the Ponseti method is 95% effective when used properly. Learn more about the Ponseti method here.

Treatment usually starts in the first 2 weeks after birth. We’ve also achieved excellent results treating children referred to us at an older age.

Stage 1: Stretching and Casting

• Timeline: 4 to 6 weeks
• During this first stage of treatment, a LuskinOIC clubfoot specialist will gently manipulate your baby’s foot through stretching into the right position. A long-leg cast that spans from the toes to the thigh will be applied to hold your baby’s foot in place.
• This step will be repeated weekly for 4 to 6 weeks. Once the foot is in the proper position, the treatment moves into Stage 2.

Stage 2: Achilles Tenotomy

• Timeline: 3 weeks
• Next is a quick, minor medical procedure called an Achilles tenotomy. Your baby’s surgeon will make a tiny cut in the Achilles tendon (the cord behind the heel), which will allow the tendon to lengthen and be more flexible as it grows back. Because it is such a small incision, your child won’t need stitches.
• After the procedure, your baby will receive a new cast. The cast will be removed when the tendon has healed at the right length and the foot is completely corrected.

Stage 3: Bracing

• Timeline: 3 to 5 years
• Once Stage 2 is complete, your child will need to wear a brace for a few years to keep the clubfoot from recurring. This brace is sometimes called the “boots and bar” brace (because it’s made of two shoes connected by a metal bar). Some bars allow each leg to move on its own, while others only allow both feet to move together. The brace may look uncomfortable, but should not hurt or bother your child. Your child will learn how to crawl, sit and walk with the brace on, just like other kids their age. Learn More
• The brace is usually worn for 23 hours each day for the first 3 months. After that, your child might have to wear it during nap time and overnight (about 12 to 14 hours a day) for 3 to 5 years.

Stretching Exercises for Clubfoot

Your child’s doctor may recommend stretching exercises to help improve flexibility and strengthen your child’s clubfoot. If they believe additional strengthening is needed, your child may be referred to physical therapy.

Exercises may include:

• Ankle Dorsiflexion Exercises: Place the palm of your hand under your child’s foot and put the other hand on your child’s flexed knee. Gently flex the ankle up and out. Hold this position for 10 seconds and repeat 10 times.
• Ankle Eversion Exercises: Place a hand around the calf of your child’s leg and the other hand around the base of the great toe. Gently, bring the foot outward. Hold this position for 10 seconds and repeat 10 times.