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.

Read more about Clubfoot

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.

Find a Clinic

Parent Education Tool

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

English
Amharic
Chinchewa
Creole
French
Kinyarwanda
Kirundi
Portuguese
Spanish
Swahili

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.

Be Part of the Solution

Stories from Our Families

Finding a new name

Finding a new name

Oct 13, 2023

Baby Betire in Ethiopia While imagining the happiness and joy their son would bring to their family, Bogale and Betire headed to the hospital to give birth to their firstborn son. However, things quickly took a turn. Everyone thought Betire's baby might not make it...

Part of God’s plan

Part of God’s plan

Oct 13, 2023

Sami in DRC Goreth and Obed were shocked when their son Sami was born with clubfoot. Their community mocked their son and blamed Goreth for her son’s condition. It can be hard to find peace when going through difficult seasons in life like this. Trusting and accepting...

Taking an Interest

Taking an Interest

Aug 7, 2023

Santos in Mozambique If you've ever had to take care of a baby, you know it can be challenging…all the diapering and bathing on a squirmy baby. Now, imagine that baby has a pair of casts that you must do your best to keep dry and clean through all the routine baby...