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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

The Miracle Child

The Miracle Child

Nov 13, 2024

Esdras in Honduras His name means “help from the divine.” His parents gave him this name because Roxana had difficulty getting pregnant, and they believed this little boy was a miracle from God.  When doctors told her Esdras would be born with clubfoot, she became...

Hope, Resilience and a Bright Future

Hope, Resilience and a Bright Future

Oct 11, 2024

Amar in Ethiopia When Amar was born with clubfoot, his family faced immense challenges. Relatives told them the condition wasn't serious and would heal naturally with sunbathing and massages, but their worries grew when they saw no improvement.  Financial constraints...

Following the Gold Standard

Following the Gold Standard

Oct 2, 2024

Margaret in Ghana The Ponseti method of casts and braces is the gold-standard clubfoot treatment for children, especially those under two. It is often described as “minimally invasive,” which it is. Yet, in most cases, a tenotomy occurs before the last cast is...