Tiny Toes, Big Moves: Understanding and Treating Clubfoot with Dr Razak - December 2024

As parents, any sign of abnormality in our baby's development can immediately set off alarm bells and stir up worry. Imagine seeing one or both of your baby’s feet turned inward and downward—it’s only natural to feel concerned. From the moment of conception, we start caring deeply about our little ones, and these concerns only grow stronger with each stage of development. But don’t worry—clubfoot is treatable, especially with early intervention. We’ll dive into the causes, diagnosis, and effective treatments for clubfoot. So, buckle up for a supportive journey through the twists and turns of tiny feet. Let’s work together to get those little ones back on their toes! Ready to learn more? We sat down with Dr Razak to break it down. Without further ado, let’s jump right in! Dr Abd Razak Muhamad, Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon at Gleneagles Hospital Kuala Lumpur Dr Abd Razak Muhamad is a Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon at Gleneagles Hospital Kuala Lumpur. He specialises in paediatric orthopaedics. His expertise is in treating children with congenital, developmental, and trauma-related orthopaedic conditions. Dr Razak also has extensive experience from his time at the Institute of Paediatrics, Hospital Kuala Lumpur. What is clubfoot, and how common is it in Malaysia? Clubfoot, or congenital talipes equinovarus, is when one or both feet are turned inward and downward. It can be mild or severe and can mess with mobility if not treated. In Malaysia, about 1 in 1,000 babies are born with it. The good news? It's totally treatable, especially with early intervention. What causes clubfoot, and are there any known risk factors? The exact cause is a bit of a mystery, but it's likely a mix of genes and the environment. If a parent has clubfoot, the child has a higher chance of getting it too. Other risk factors? Maternal smoking, low amniotic fluid, or conditions like oligohydramnios. How is clubfoot diagnosed, and at what stage of pregnancy or after birth can it be detected? Mummies, fear not. You can usually spot clubfoot during a routine ultrasound around the 20th week of pregnancy. After birth, doctors would diagnose it with a physical exam. Pediatricians and orthopedic specialists look for those telltale inward and downward turned feet. What are the treatment options available for clubfoot, and what does the treatment process involve? The Ponseti method is the gold standard for treating clubfoot. It starts with gentle manipulation and casting of the foot to slowly correct its position. This usually begins shortly after birth. After a few weeks, a small surgery called a tenotomy may be done to lengthen the Achilles tendon. After treatment, the child will need to wear a foot abduction brace to keep the feet in place and prevent relapse. In fact, recent advancements have made the Ponseti method even better, especially with more comfortable and effective braces. Research is also exploring less invasive techniques and better tools to detect and treat clubfoot earlier and more effectively. What does the future look like for children post-treatment? With the right treatment, the future is bright. Most children can walk, run and play without major issues. Starting treatment early and sticking with it is crucial for the best results and avoiding relapses. How can parents support their child during and after treatment? Go to All Appointments: Make sure your child attends every medical appointment. These are important for monitoring progress. Follow the Bracing Schedule: Stick to the bracing schedule as directed. Consistency helps the treatment work. Offer Emotional Support: Be there for your child with encouragement and comfort. Your support is crucial. Learn About Clubfoot: Understand the condition and its treatment. This helps you better support your child and work with the doctors. Communicate with the Healthcare Team: Keep in touch with your child’s doctors and specialists. Good communication helps address any concerns and keep the treatment on track. What are the common misconceptions about clubfoot? Some people think clubfoot is caused by something the mother did during pregnancy. That is not true. Clubfoot is a congenital condition with no single cause. When not well informed, many parents assume that clubfoot means their children will have lifelong disabilities. In reality, with proper treatment, most kids can live normal, active lives. What are the resources available for parents to learn about the condition? Parents can find support and resources from various places. Organisations like the Malaysian Paediatric Orthopaedic Society offer valuable help. Online forums and local support groups are also very helpful in providing advice and community support. Wrapping Up: A Hopeful Perspective on Clubfoot Treatment So mummies, Always remember that clubfoot is a condition with a very positive outlook when treated properly. The key to achieving the best results lies in early intervention and consistently following the treatment plan. When faced with a diagnosis, staying hopeful and focused is important, even if you feel worried. Advancements in treatment methods and supportive resources offer strong support for families. Dedicated orthopedic specialists and physiotherapists will also support your child through treatment, guiding you every step of the way. Embrace the support available and trust in the process. Source: Dr. Abd Razak Muhamad, Orthopaedic & Trauma Surgery, Paediatric Orthopaedics from Gleneagles Hospital Kuala Lumpur Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as medical advice from Motherhood. For any health-related concerns, it is advisable to consult with a qualified healthcare professional or medical practitioner. For more insightful stories and fun recipes, stay tuned to Motherhood Story!

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