Varus (club foot)

Varus, also known as club-foot or talipes, is a birth defect where the foot is twisted out of shape or position. It is usually inherited but can also be caused by pressure on the feet from the mother's uterus. The most common type of varus is called talipes equinovarus, where the baby's foot is bent inwards and downwards.

The shin bone (tibia) may also be bent inwards. Sometimes both feet are affected. The condition is usually treated by regular, gentle manipulation of the foot and ankle beginning as soon as possible after birth. The physiotherapist will also teach the mother how to do these movements several times a day. A plaster cast or splinting is sometimes used to hold the foot in the right position. In some cases, surgery may be needed to correct the deformity. Following removal of the plaster cast, the physiotherapist will use manipulation and exercise to maintain the foot's correct position.