CTEV (Congenital Talipes Equinovarus), commonly known as clubfoot, is a congenital condition where a baby is born with the foot turned inward or downward. This condition affects the normal alignment of the foot and ankle and can make walking difficult if left untreated.
Early treatment is extremely important to correct the deformity and allow the child to walk normally. Dr. Md Shahbaz Siddiqui provides specialized CTEV correction treatment in Okhla, focusing on early diagnosis and advanced corrective techniques for optimal outcomes.
CTEV correction involves medical treatment and procedures to realign the foot and ankle of infants born with clubfoot. The goal of treatment is to gradually correct the deformity and allow normal foot function.
Treatment is most effective when started early in infancy.
The exact cause of CTEV is not always known, but several factors may contribute to the condition.
Genetic factors
Abnormal fetal positioning during pregnancy
Neuromuscular disorders
Developmental abnormalities of bones and muscles
Family history of clubfoot
Early detection helps ensure successful treatment.
Common signs of CTEV include:
Foot turned inward or downward
Stiffness in the foot and ankle
Smaller calf muscles on the affected side
Difficulty placing the foot flat on the ground
Abnormal foot shape at birth
Early medical evaluation is essential if these signs are noticed.
CTEV is usually diagnosed soon after birth during a physical examination.
The evaluation may include:
Physical examination of the baby's foot
Assessment of foot flexibility and alignment
X-rays in some cases
Evaluation of severity of the deformity
Planning the most appropriate correction method
The Ponseti method is the most common treatment for CTEV and involves:
Gentle manipulation of the foot
Serial casting to gradually correct the position
Use of braces to maintain correction
In some cases, a minor procedure may be required to release tight tendons and improve foot alignment.
For severe cases or late diagnosis, surgical correction may be necessary to restore proper foot function.
After correction, braces and follow-up care are essential to prevent recurrence.
Early treatment provides excellent outcomes.
Proper foot alignment
Normal walking ability
Prevention of long-term disability
Improved mobility and balance
Better quality of life for the child
1. When should CTEV treatment start?
Treatment should begin as early as possible, preferably within the first few weeks after birth.
2. Can clubfoot be corrected completely?
Yes, with early treatment most children can achieve normal foot function.
3. Is CTEV treatment painful for babies?
The Ponseti method is gentle and safe for infants.
4. How long does treatment take?
Initial correction may take several weeks, followed by bracing for a longer period.
5. Can CTEV recur after treatment?
Recurrence is possible if bracing instructions are not followed properly, which is why regular follow-up is important.