The prevalence of clubfoot worldwide is estimated to be 1 in every 1,000 live births. It is estimated that there are over 200,000 new cases of clubfoot every year, with a higher incidence in developing countries. Clubfoot is a common congenital abnormality that affects the shape and position of the foot, and it can cause difficulties with walking and mobility if left untreated. Early intervention and treatment are important in order to correct the foot and improve outcomes.
Exercise can be helpful in treating clubfoot (congenital talipes) by promoting strength, flexibility, and proper positioning of the foot. Physical therapy exercises, along with bracing and casting, are commonly recommended as part of a comprehensive treatment plan for clubfoot. However, it's important to consult a doctor or physical therapist to develop a personalized exercise plan, as the specific exercises and treatment plan may vary depending on the severity and type of clubfoot. In this blog post, we'll be discussing the top 5 physiotherapy exercises for clubfoot that can be easily incorporated into one's daily routine.
- Lie your baby on their back.
- Hold the back of your baby's leg with one hand, and hold the front of the affected foot in the other between your finger and thumb.
- Bring the foot around to the middle so that it is in line with the leg.
- Make sure the big toe stays higher than that little toe.
- Lie your baby on their back.
- Hold the back of your baby's leg with one hand.
- With your other hand, tickle the outer edge of your baby's foot.
- You should start to see it turn out to the side.
- Lie your baby on their back.
- Hold the back of your baby's leg with one hand, cupping the heel in your hand.
- With your other hand place your fingers along the inside edge of the foot.
- Place your thumb along the outside edge of the foot.
- Holding the foot gently but securely, bring the front of the foot around to the middle so it is in line with the back of the foot, heel, and leg.
- Lie your baby on their back.
- Hold the back of your baby's leg with one hand, and hold the front of the affected foot in the other between your finger and thumb.
- Bring your baby's foot into the midline, then lift your baby's foot up towards its shin.
- Keep the foot in a flat position.
- Do not force this movement into resistance.