Clubfoot and Disability: Understanding the Difference

Have you always wondered if a baby with clubfoot will face disability in performing daily functions? From a far vision, yes, it does seem like clubfoot is a disability. However, there is more depth to it. Clubfoot is referred to as a congenital condition where the baby's foot is curved on the inside, whereas disability is a much broader term, used for various conditions where performing daily activities is a mammoth task. In this blog, we will understand the difference between a clubfoot and a disability. 

What is a Clubfoot? 

A clubfoot, medically known as talipes equinovarus, is a birth defect where the baby’s foot is curved inwards. The bottom of the feet is often observed to face sideways and rarely up. Clubfoot occurs when there is a defect in the tendon (soft tissue that connects muscles to bone) present at the front of the feet. During the gestational period, these tendons grow shorter and closer together than normal. It is a common condition seen in 1 in every 1000 babies. Half of the affected babies have the effect in both feet.  

• Symptoms of Clubfoot: One or both of the feet are turned inside, in a kidney bean shape. There is a deep crease at the bottom of the feet. If observed clearly, one calf muscle is also affected by it. Clubfoot is confirmed by a stiff ankle, lack of motion, and a shorter foot. 

• Causes of Clubfoot: The exact reason for a clubfoot is not yet known, but it is assumed to be genetics factors that define how the baby would develop, or it could be the lifestyle of the mother (smoking, drinking, drugs, tobacco, etc.) that affects the child's growth.  

• Treatment of Clubfoot: There are two pathways for the treatment of a clubfoot: orthopedic treatment or physiotherapy. Out of these, the most prominent is a pediatric orthopedic doctor. An expert in orthopedics can help your child walk normally again with conservative treatment options like bracing and casting. Turn to Dr. Uday Meghnathi, the best pediatric orthopedic doctor in Vadodara. He has years of rich experience in helping children with clubfoot and their successful stories. Call us, tell us your query, and we will work on it together. Book your appointment now. 

What is a Disability? 

Disability is a term used to define a condition of not being able to use a part of your body to its full potential for performing daily tasks, usually because of an injury or disease. Disability is a broad term that can be used for any condition that leads to a deformity or incurable injury. 

• Symptoms of a Disability: There are a few ways to identify a disability:  learning disability, intellectual disability, physical disability, sensory difficulties, or mental disabilities. 

• Causes of a disability: Causes of disabilities can be genetic, congenital, and accidental.

• Treatment of Disability: Varies for different disabilities. 

  

Difference Between Clubfoot and Disability 

Below are a few basic differences between both of these conditions. 

Aspect	Clubfoot	Disability
Definition	A birth defect where the foot is twisted	A condition that limits physical or mental ability
Type	Specific orthopedic condition	Broad category of impairments
Cause	Mostly congenital	Congenital or acquired
Treatability	Often treatable	May or may not be treatable
Relation	Can lead to disability if untreated	Clubfoot can be one type of disability

Conclusion 

Remember! Clubfoot is a curable condition. If observed, it is essential to refer the child to an orthopedic immediately. Dr. Uday Meghnathi has rich experience in treating patients with clubfeet. He always prioritizes minimally invasive methods to treat his patients. Being the best clubfoot doctor in Vadodara, he ensures his patients avail highly efficient treatments and results. His clinic is completely equipped with advanced technologies and expert staff to look after your baby. Call us to discuss your story. Let's work on it together!