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Clubfoot is a congenital foot deformity characterized by inward turning and downward pointing of the foot, affecting approximately 1-2 per 1000 births. The condition involves abnormal positioning of bones, joints, muscles, and tendons in the foot and lower leg, requiring early intervention for optimal outcomes.
Clubfoot results from abnormal development during fetal limb morphogenesis, typically occurring between 9-10 weeks of gestation when the foot fails to rotate from its initial equinovarus position. The deformity involves contractures of soft tissues including the Achilles tendon, posterior tibial tendon, and plantar fascia, along with abnormal bone and joint positioning affecting the talus, calcaneus, and midfoot structures.
Early recognition and treatment are crucial as the condition does not self-correct and worsens without intervention, leading to permanent disability and pain. The Ponseti method of serial casting followed by bracing has become the gold standard treatment, achieving correction rates above 95% when initiated early and followed properly.