Symptoms of Club Foot
Symptoms of club foot are usually visible at birth or detected on prenatal scans. The condition affects the structure and position of the foot or feet, and though club foot itself is not painful in infants, its visual and physical effects are clear and distinct.
1. Foot Positioning | Symptoms of Club Foot
The most noticeable symptom is the abnormal inward and downward rotation of the foot. In classic club foot:
- The foot turns inward (inversion)
- The sole may face sideways or even upward
- The heel points downward
- The foot appears shorter and narrower than normal
Both feet can be affected (bilateral club foot), although one-sided cases are also common.
2. Tightness and Stiffness
The Achilles tendon at the back of the heel is typically tight and shortened, which contributes to the downward positioning of the heel. The calf muscles may also be underdeveloped, giving the lower leg a thinner appearance on the affected side.
3. Limited Range of Motion | Symptoms of Club Foot
The foot has restricted movement. Attempts to move the foot into a normal position are met with resistance, though the condition is not painful for the newborn.
4. Associated Changes in Leg Shape
In some cases, the shin may appear slightly curved or shortened. The affected foot and leg can be smaller than the unaffected side, especially in unilateral cases.
5. Walking Difficulties (if Untreated)
Without treatment, club foot leads to problems with mobility:
- Walking on the sides or tops of the feet
- Difficulty wearing shoes
- Skin sores and calluses due to abnormal pressure points
- Long-term joint and skeletal problems
Early identification of the symptoms of club foot allows for prompt treatment, which can begin within the first weeks of life. With appropriate care, most children achieve full mobility without pain or long-term disability.
[Next: Diagnosis of Club Foot →]
