Club Footedness or the relapse of clubfoot is a condition where the foot returns to its original position. This can happen because of the withdrawal, containment, or loss of the muscles that initially caused it to twist inward. It can also happen because there is not enough space to turn outward again. The Relapse of clubfoot can also create other problems such as knee, hip, or back problems.
Treatment Process
The treatment of clubfoot relapse is a necessary intervention because it can cause problems with the hip, knee, and back. It can also create problems with the feet.
Relapse of clubfoot is treated by an orthopedic surgeon, who will start the treatment by deciding whether it is necessary to operate or not. The doctor will examine the child and then decide on a suitable treatment accordingly. The doctor will consider the age, the condition of the child’s bones, muscles, and ligaments, the degree of deformity, and any previous treatment that has been done. If it is decided that treatment is needed, then the first course of action will be to initiate a revision or a second operation for clubfoot to correct it. If this does not work, surgery may be necessary to correct any deformities such as knee pain or back problems.
The treatment for the relapse of clubfoot usually involves using an artificial limb so that the child can walk again. If it is possible to return to walking, the doctor may opt to do this as soon as possible. However, if care is needed, it is still necessary to have a clear plan before initiating a new treatment process.
Different types of surgeries can be done for relapse of clubfoot ;
The most common type is manipulation under anesthesia (MUA), which means that you will be asleep during surgery and wake up afterward. If this does not work, then open release surgery can be performed to increase mobility. Surgery for a relapse of clubfoot can be performed to correct the condition. It involves the correction or release of the tendon that makes up part of the calf muscle from its natural resting point. The surgery can be corrected by using an incision made in front or behind the knee joint. Another type includes the use of plates and screws. It is performed with several surgical incisions, which will be made in the knee or hip. The replacement part is usually a piece of steel or plastic that is then put in place so that the child can walk again.
After the surgery is done, the doctor will give the child some time to get used to the limb and start physical therapy. The primary purpose of physical therapy for relapse of clubfoot is to allow the child to learn how to use their new limb without causing any further pain or injury. This will help them manage their symptoms that could lead to further complications.
Recovery Process
The first step in recovery is strengthening the muscles that hold your foot in place. This is done through stretching exercises or using a splint. A therapist or doctor may also use a brace if strength training and therapy do not work. If the relapse causes knee, hip, or back problems, then stabilization exercises can help strengthen these areas. If your problem happens in one leg, then only that leg should be treated while continuing with conservative measures in the other leg.