When Mrs. Helen Adebayo’s son was born with clubfoot, she was devastated. Her newborn’s feet were twisted at sharp angles, and she feared he might never walk. Like many families, she experienced emotions of shock, guilt, and confusion. Mrs. Adebayo, a 30-year-old petty trader from Ikereku, constantly questioned what went wrong during her pregnancy.
Understanding Clubfoot and Its Prevalence
Is it a congenital condition where a baby’s feet turn inward and downward. It affects about 1 in every 1,000 newborns, making it one of the most common congenital foot deformities. Without treatment, clubfoot does not resolve on its own, but early intervention can lead to excellent outcomes. Early detection is key to avoiding long-term mobility issues.
Detecting Clubfoot at Birth
Dr. James Adeniran, an orthopaedic surgeon at the Federal Medical Centre Bida, emphasized that clubfoot is typically detected at birth. Midwives check if the sole of the foot can touch the leg’s surface. If the foot cannot touch, it indicates clubfoot. This simple test helps identify the condition early, allowing for timely treatment.
Effective Treatment Methods
The Ponseti method is a proven, non-surgical treatment for clubfoot. It involves repositioning the feet with plaster casts, followed by a minor procedure called a tenotomy to fully straighten the foot. A foot abduction brace is then worn to prevent relapse. Dr. Adeniran stressed that starting treatment immediately after birth leads to the best outcomes.
The Importance of Early Treatment
For children under two, the casting phase typically lasts four to six weeks. Older children may need up to eight weeks of treatment. Afterward, a special brace is worn for 23 hours daily in the first three months, then at night for four to five years. Early treatment prevents complications such as difficulty walking and low self-esteem.
Free Clubfoot Treatment Available in Nigeria
Through partnerships with MiracleFeet, free clubfoot correction is available for children under five at hospitals across Nigeria. Mr. Obatunde Oladapo, Executive Director of PLAN Foundation, encouraged parents to take advantage of this free treatment. The foundation also helps indigent parents with transportation to ensure they don’t miss appointments.
Raising Awareness and Dispelling Myths
Mr. John Echeozo, CAST administrator, called on the government to prioritize clubfoot treatment. He also highlighted the need to dispel myths that clubfoot is caused by curses or parental sins. By 2030, Dr. Adeniran envisions a Nigeria where no child lives with untreated clubfoot. Through awareness and early intervention, the future looks brighter for children with this condition.
