At Unbreakable Physiotherapy, we support families with gentle, evidence-based care for babies with positional talipes or clubfoot. If you’re unsure whether your baby needs help, we’re here to guide you with clarity and reassurance.
What is talipes?
Positional talipes, also known as clubfoot, is a condition in newborn babies where their foot is either turned down and inwards (equinovarus), or pushed up and turned outwards (calcaneovalgus). It can affect one or both feet. Positional talipes remains flexible, meaning that the foot can be gently moved into a normal position.
It is a relatively common congenital condition, with about 1 in 1000 babies being born with positional talipes.
Equinovarus:
Calcaneovalgus:
What causes positional talipes?
Positional talipes is thought to be caused by the position of the fetus within the uterus. This causes tendons in the baby’s leg and foot to be shorter and tighter than normal.
There are several hypothesised risk factors thought by researchers to contribute to clubfoot, including:
- Genetics: genes passed down by one or both parents may result in clubfoot. If one or both parents had clubfoot as a baby, there may be an increased likelihood that their baby may have clubfoot as well.
- Oligohydraminos: if there was not enough amniotic fluid around the fetus during pregnancy
- Environmental factors: if cigarettes, alcohol, or recreational drugs were used during pregnancy
Other birth defects: the presence of other defects, including spina bifida and cerebral palsy.
How does clubfoot affect my baby?
Clubfoot isn’t painful for newborns – in fact, most won’t even notice it during the first few months after they are born. However, without intervention, clubfoot could get in the way of standing and walking once they get to walking age.
How do you treat talipes? Will my baby need surgery?
In majority of cases, positional talipes will resolve with conservative or non-invasive methods implemented into your baby’s routine. More often than not, surgery is not required in positional talipes.
Treatment for positional talipes may include stretches, bracing, or serial casting. In severe cases of positional talipes, or where conservative methods have been unsuccessful, surgery may be needed to correct clubfoot.
When should I seek help?
The evidence strongly supports early intervention for the best results and positive outcomes for positional talipes. They can wear regular shoes, walk, run, and play sports without pain.
How Unbreakable Physiotherapy can help
Our paediatric physiotherapists at Unbreakable Physiotherapy provide an evidence-based approach to support the assessment and management of positional talipes. We provide –
- Full assessment of feet, knees, hips, and overall development
- Management strategies, including specific stretches of your child’s feet and legs
- Screening for associated genetic conditions, birth defects, or other packaging disorders
- Education regarding your child’s condition and expected prognosis
- Family-centred practice working towards your goals
Referral for further support from other health professionals if required.