What is clubfoot?

baby's foot is twisted out of shape or position. In clubfoot, the tissues connecting the muscles to the bone (tendons) are shorter than usual.

What causes clubfoot?

The cause of it is unknown but may be caused by genetics .

Treatment & cure

Because your newborn's bones, joints and tendons are very flexible, treatment for clubfoot usually begins in the first week or two after birth. The goal of treatment is to improve the way your child's foot looks and works before he or she learns to walk, in hopes of preventing long-term disabilities.

How many babies are born with this defect?

About 1 in 1,000 babies is born with clubfoot in the United States each year.

Characteristics and Symptoms?

• The top of the foot is usually twisted downward and inward, increasing the arch and turning the heel inward.
• The foot may be turned so severely that it actually looks as if it's upside down.
• The calf muscles in the affected leg are usually underdeveloped.
• The affected foot may be up to 1/2 inch (about 1 centimeter) shorter than the other foot

How is this defect detected?

• deformity can usually be identified on prenatal ultrasound exam.
• it is detected before birth

Sources

http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/clubfoot/symptoms-causes/dxc-20198073