Foot and ankle: Positional clubfoot

What is positional clubfoot?

Positional clubfoot is a common foot condition in newborn babies. In positional clubfoot, the foot is positioned down and inwards but remains flexible, meaning it can be gently moved into a normal position. The condition may be caused by the baby’s position while they are in the mother’s uterus. Positional clubfoot can affect one or both feet.

Differentiating a positional clubfoot from a fixed clubfoot requires careful assessment by the child’s doctor or physiotherapist. A baby with positional clubfoot should also have a hip examination.

How is positional clubfoot treated?

Once your child is diagnosed with positional clubfoot, gentle stretches and exercises to the foot may help the foot improve and move into a normal position more quickly. These stretches and exercises can be performed regularly and will be most effective when your baby is relaxed. Exercises should never be painful for your baby. Positional clubfoot usually resolves on its own in the first few months after birth. If you are concerned that your baby’s foot is stiff or not improving, consult their doctor or physiotherapist.

Stretches and exercises

• Up and out stretch

  

  Gently move your baby’s foot outwards. Hold this for a few seconds, or longer if your baby can tolerate it.

• Ankle upward-flexion stretch

  

  Gently move your baby’s foot upwards towards their shin.

• Muscle stimulation exercise

  

  Gently stroke the outside of your baby’s foot and lower leg to encourage the foot to move into a normal position.