Question
The newborn was found to have an inward foot deformity, also known as clubfoot, right after birth. What is the effectiveness of the treatment in such cases? The baby is now five days old, and I want to know when is the best time for treatment?
Answer
Due to a developmental fault in the growth of the tendons and ligaments (posterior and deep) of the foot, which do not keep pace with the development of other tendons and ligaments in the foot, these tendons and ligaments pull the back inner side of the foot upwards, causing the foot to turn upwards and inward. The Ponseti method is most effective for children who start treatment within 9 months (ideally soon after birth).