Key Takeaways:
- One in 1,000 children are born with clubfoot, a birth defect where a baby’s foot is turned inward and down.
- If left untreated, clubfoot can lead to pain and problems walking, but modern treatments can help kids live full and active lives.
- The Ponseti method is a common treatment for clubfoot, which involves a series of casts and a minor surgery to correct the foot’s position.
- Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for the best results, with babies typically starting treatment between 2 and 6 weeks old.
- Raising awareness about clubfoot can help reduce stigma and provide support for families affected by the condition.
Introduction to Clubfoot
Clubfoot is a birth defect that affects one in 1,000 children, where a baby’s foot is turned inward and down. If left untreated, it can lead to pain and problems walking, but modern treatments can help kids live full and active lives. A Colorado family is connecting their community and raising awareness about clubfoot after their son, Cameron, was born with the condition. Cameron’s parents, Samantha Criswell and Jeremy Malone, were also born with clubfoot, and they are sharing their story to help others understand the condition and its treatment.
Understanding Clubfoot and Its Treatment
According to Dr. Margaret Siobhan Murphy-Zane, a pediatric orthopedic surgeon at Children’s Colorado South Campus, a clubfoot is where the foot is turned in, kind of like a field hockey stick, and the toe is down. Dr. Murphy-Zane began treating Cameron before he was even born, when a 20-week scan diagnosed him with bilateral clubfoot. The treatment used for clubfoot today is a little different from what it was in the past. The Ponseti method involves a series of casts where the foot is rotated out and then dorsiflexed into a better position. This method has been shown to be highly effective in correcting clubfoot, and it reduces the need for surgery.
Cameron’s Journey with Clubfoot
Cameron’s parents were not surprised when they found out that their son had clubfoot, as they both had the condition themselves. Criswell had bilateral clubfeet and underwent treatment at Children’s Hospital Colorado downtown campus when she was younger. Malone had unilateral clubfoot and had limited range of motion in his foot. Dr. Murphy-Zane put Cameron in his first cast at just 15 days old, and he underwent a series of casts and a minor surgery called a tenotomy at 8 weeks old. After the surgery, Cameron wore a special brace for three months to help his foot heal and maintain its corrected position.
Raising Awareness about Clubfoot
Criswell documented Cameron’s journey on social media, which helped raise awareness about clubfoot and provided support for other families affected by the condition. Dr. Murphy-Zane praised Criswell’s efforts, saying that it’s really helpful to have positive stories out there. By sharing their story, the family hopes to reduce stigma and provide support for others who may be going through a similar experience. Cameron’s story is a testament to the effectiveness of modern treatments for clubfoot, and it shows that with the right care, kids with clubfoot can thrive and live full and active lives.
Living with Clubfoot
Today, Cameron is a happy and active 3-year-old who loves to run, jump, and play. He still wears a brace when he sleeps, but his little feet can now do everything that any other kid’s feet can do. His parents are grateful for the treatment that Cameron received and are happy to see him thriving. Dr. Murphy-Zane recommends that parents come to her for prenatal visits or as early as they can if they suspect that their child may have clubfoot. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for the best results, and Dr. Murphy-Zane says that she will treat children anywhere in the process.
Conclusion
Clubfoot is a birth defect that can be treated with modern medicine, and with the right care, kids with clubfoot can live full and active lives. By raising awareness about clubfoot and sharing their story, the Malone family hopes to provide support and reduce stigma for other families affected by the condition. If you or someone you know is affected by clubfoot, it’s essential to seek medical attention early and to work with a qualified healthcare professional to develop a treatment plan. With the right treatment and support, kids with clubfoot can thrive and live happy and healthy lives.