Child Having Both Ankle Bent Inwards. How Serious Is This? What Should Be Done?

Posted on Wed, 15 Aug 2012

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Wed, 15 Aug 2012 Answered on

Tue, 4 Sep 2012 Last reviewed on

Question : my new born was born on the 12th of aug2012 with both ancle bent inword. how serious is it. the docter said we will put a cast on both her legs for two weeks to get straight.

Answered by Dr. Sudhir (1 hour later)

Hello,

This deformity is called clubfoot or CTEV.

Most cases respond well to treatment and physiotherapy. However long term treatment is needed.

But results of treatment are not always predictable. So your doctor might not be able to tell you how baby will respond to treatment.

But this deformity can be cured to quiet desirable level with good care by skilled doctors and physiotherapists.

Hope that answers your question.

Regards.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar

Follow up: Dr. Sudhir (8 hours later)

I see. You havent answerd is casting both legs for 2 weeks a good idead for a baby thats less than 2 weeks old.

Answered by Dr. Sudhir (42 minutes later)

Hello,

Yes, it is good idea. In such cases if there is no other health issue then one should start treatment as early as possible. Earlier the treatment is started better are the results.

So, I agree with your doctor about casting both legs at two weeks age. At this age child is not weight bearing so it would be ideal time.

Hope this answers your question.

Regards.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar