We understand that surgery can sometimes be a difficult choice, but also that it becomes even harder when you have to make that decision for a child. Such is the case when an infant is born with a case of clubfoot. The good news about this condition is that conservative, nonsurgical treatment is often quite successful. There are instances, however, when surgery is still required for this foot deformity. When that is the case, it can be helpful to know what to expect from the procedure.

Our practice always attempts to correct the condition with the use of conservative treatments first. Of course, the hope in doing so is that it will be successful. Even if it doesn’t totally correct the problem, it can lead to surgical procedures that are less extensive, if they are still necessary.

Essentially, the clubfoot surgery itself will aim to release the Achilles tendon, move the anterior tibial tendon, or correct the condition by releasing multiple soft-tissue structures. Whichever procedure is used for the child will be conducted in a normal surgical fashion, but you should know what is entailed with regard to recovery and potential outcomes.

Following the procedure, the child’s foot joints are stabilized with a long-leg cast and pins while his or her soft tissue heals. After 4-6 weeks, we remove the cast and pins and then use a short-leg cast. This new cast is worn for roughly another month before it is removed. In order to ensure that the foot does not return to the abnormal position, braces or special shoes may be required for a year or more following the surgery.

If you need assistance in making the decision for clubfoot surgery, Carolina Podiatry Group is here to help. Simply contact us either by calling our office at (803) 285-1411 in Lancaster or (803) 548-FEET (3338) in Indian Land, SC, or schedule an appointment online and come in to talk with any of our caring foot specialists.