Talipes Flashcards
(6 cards)
What is talipes?
Also known as clubfoot. It is a fixed abnormal ankle position that presents at birth. Can occur spontaneously or be associated with other syndromes. Usually identified during the newborn examination.
What is talipes equinovarus?
Describes the ankle in plantar flexion and supination.
What is talipes calcaneovalgus?
Describes the ankle in dorsiflexion and pronation.
What is it treated with?
Ponseti method. Surgery may be needed if this method fails or can’t be used.
What is the Ponseti method?
A way of treating talipes without surgery. This is treated almost immediately after birth. The foot is manipulated towards a normal position and a cast is applied to hold it in position. This is repeated over and over until the foot is in the correct position. An achilles tenotomy is done to release tension in the achilles tendon, often in clinic. After treatment when the cast is finished, a brace is used to hold the feet in the correct position when not walking until the child is around 4 years. The brace is referred to as ‘boots and bars’.
What is positional talipes?
Where the resting position of the ankle is in plantar flexion and supination, but it’s not fixed in this position and there’s not a structural boney issue in the ankle. The muscles are slightly tight around the ankle but the bones are unaffected. The foot can still be moved into the normal position. Requires referral to a physiotherapist for some exercises to help return the foot to a normal position. It resolves with time.
