Definition:
A clubfoot, or talipes equinovarus (TEV), is a birth defect wherein the foot is twisted in (inverted) and down.
Diagnosis:
Radiographs show the true gain in foot (ankle) dorsiflexion and confirm the appearance of an iatrogenic rockerbottom foot should one arise. Occasionally, radiographs are needed to diagnose clubfeet associated with tibial hemimelias.
Treatment:
Clubfoot is treated with manipulation by podiatrists, orthopedic surgeons, specialist nurses, or orthotists by giving braces to hold the feet in orthodox positions, serial casting, or splints called knee ankle foot orthoses (KAFO).
Causes:
There are different causes for clubfoot: It is not known what the exact cause of clubfoot may be, but it has been found frequently in individuals with Edwards' syndrome, a genetic defect with three copies of chromosome 18 genetic causes with incidence rates increasing significantly when multiple direct family members have the condition external influences such as intrauterine compression from oligohydramnios or from amniotic band syndrome. TEV may be linked with other birth defects such as spina bifida cystica. Ingestion of MDMA (Ecstasy) while pregnant has been linked with this congenital abnormality.
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