fbpx

For Parents

 

Clubfoot information

What is clubfoot?

Clubfoot is a deformity present at birth that twists the foot downward and inward, making walking difficult or impossible. While it cannot be prevented, it can be corrected using a relatively inexpensive treatment process called the Ponseti method.

Can it be treated?

Yes, clubfoot can be treated! We adhere to treatment through the Ponseti method, the gold standard of clubfoot treatment. The treatment phase involves weekly casting for four to eight weeks and, in most cases, a minimally-invasive outpatient procedure to lengthen the Achilles tendon, called a tenotomy. After this, in the maintenance phase, children wear a foot abduction brace for 23 hours a day for three months, and then at night and nap time until the age of five. Children born with clubfoot can take their first steps on completely straight feet thanks to early intervention and to this relatively simple, cost-effective treatment method.

Where can I get help?

We currently operate partner clubfoot clinics in 16 countries in Africa and Latin America. Click the “find a clinic” button below to see if there is a Hope Walks partner clubfoot clinic near you. If not, please contact us and we’ll do our best to refer you to someone who can help.

Parent Education Tool

A guide for parents of children with clubfoot. Download in your language.

Video Resources

Hope Walks has been working in partnership with Medical Aid Films to create four films about clubfoot and the Ponseti method of treatment. These films are used to train parent advisors, as well as an educational tool for parents. Videos (with and without English/French subtitles) are available for streaming or download by clicking the images below. Currently the videos are in English, French and Portuguese. Within the next few weeks, Spanish, Amharic and Kinyarwanda translations will be available.

Stories from Our Families

The journey to healing

The journey to healing

Ainhara in Honduras Ainhara was born into a small family in Honduras. She received her first clubfoot casts at two days old in a private clinic not associated with Hope Walks. After two months of casting, the doctor moved Ainhara to leather shoes and said she would be...

Healing in the market

Healing in the market

Amir in Ethiopia One expects to find eggs, a fresh chicken, or a wide variety of vegetables when going to the outdoor market in Ethiopia, but one family never expected to find the answers to their son's disability.  Hamid's son Amir was born with clubfoot, and until...

There is a solution

There is a solution

Daricson in Honduras Daricson comes from a large and loving family. He is the youngest of five children, ranging in age from 22 down to three-year-old Daricson. When their little brother was born, they all were shocked by his clubfoot disability.  Not surprisingly,...