Foot malformations in newborns are congenital conditions that, if not properly treated, can significantly affect quality of life.
Early diagnosis is crucial to initiate proper treatment.
In this article, we will explore the most common malformations, their causes and available treatment options.
Common Types of Foot Malformations
1. Talo Foot
Description: The foot is held upward due to incorrect position of the talus.
Causes: Usually associated with fetal position or neuromuscular problems.
Treatment: Although in many cases it resolves spontaneously, physical therapy may be necessary to correct the position and avoid future complications.
Physical therapy includes exercises to strengthen and stretch the muscles of the foot and leg.
2. Equine Foot
Description: The foot is held in a tiptoe position with pronounced plantar flexion.
Causes: May be due to abnormal fetal positions or neurological conditions.
Treatment: Intensive physiotherapy and, in severe cases, surgery to release the tendons and allow normal foot position.
Stretching and strengthening exercises are essential in the rehabilitation process.
3. Flat Foot
Description: The plantar arch has little curvature, giving a flat appearance to the footprint.
Causes: Frequent in young children due to foot fat and lax ligaments.
Treatment: Although often corrected with growth, orthopedic insoles can be used and specific exercises can be performed to strengthen the foot muscles, improving the plantar arch.
4. Cavus Foot
Description: The plantar arch is very high, and the toes may be flexed.
Causes: Frequently related to neuromuscular problems and genetic inheritance.
Treatment: Customized insoles to provide additional support and surgery in severe cases to correct the deformity.
Stretching and strengthening exercises help relieve pain and improve foot function.
5. Valgus Foot
Description: The heel is oriented outward.
Causes: Commonly resulting from ligamentous laxity or fetal positions.
Treatment: Use of orthotics to correct the alignment and physiotherapy to strengthen the muscles that support the foot.
6. Varus Foot
Description: The heel is oriented inward.
Causes: May be associated with neuromuscular conditions or intrauterine positions.
Treatment: Orthotics and physiotherapy to correct the position and strengthen the supporting muscles.
Most Common Congenital Malformations
1. Talo Valgus Foot
Causes: May be associated with spina bifida or congenital hip dislocation.
Treatment: Physiotherapy and splints to correct the position.
In severe cases, cast bandages to help keep the foot in proper position while it develops.
2. Cavus Foot
Causes: Frequently related to neuromuscular problems and genetic inheritance.
Treatment: Customized insoles that provide additional support, and in severe cases, surgery to correct the deformity.
Post-surgical rehabilitation includes stretching and strengthening exercises.
3. Congenital Varus Clubfoot
Causes: May be hereditary or associated with congenital dislocation of the hips, arthrogryposis or spina bifida.
Treatment: Corrective casts to position the foot properly and intensive physiotherapy.
Surgery in 60% of the cases to achieve a correct and functional position of the foot.
4. Congenital Flatfoot
Description: Flattening of the plantar arch from birth, accompanied by pain and limitation of movement.
Treatment: Corrective casts and surgery, especially if the diagnosis is made late.
Orthopedic insoles and specific exercises help improve foot function.
5. Tarsal Coalition
Description: Union of one or more tarsal bones, resulting in a rigid flat foot.
Treatment: Surgery to correct the abnormal fusion of the bones, followed by physical therapy to improve mobility and strengthen the foot muscles.
Importance of Early Diagnosis
Early diagnosis is essential for effective treatment of foot malformations in children.
Most of these conditions can be almost 100% corrected if treated before three months of age.
Parents should be alert to any abnormalities in their infants’ feet and seek immediate medical attention.
Conclusion
Foot malformations in newborns are treatable and, with early diagnosis, children can lead a normal life.
Clínica San Román offers advanced and personalized solutions for each case, ensuring the best care for the little patients.
If you notice any abnormalities in your baby’s feet or have any concerns about their podiatric development, do not hesitate to contact Clínica San Román.
Our team of specialists is here to offer you the best treatment and personalized care. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and ensure the health and well-being of your little one’s feet.
