POSITIONAL TALIPES. MY BABIES FOOT CURLS IN. BABY FOOT PROBLEMS

Positional talipes is a foot condition that can affect one or both feet. 

It is a common foot problem in infants, thought to be caused by the newborn's position while in the womb (in utero).

There are 2 main types of talipes- Positional talipes and Congenital talipes.

Furthermore there are two types of positional talipes - Equinovarus Talipes where the foot turns in and down and Calcaneovalgus Talipes where the foot is up and the front of the foot is turned out.

In positional talipes the foot is flexible and can be moved into a normal foot posture. If the foot isn’t able to be moved then it may be congenital talipes.

Paediatricians commonly refer babies with talipes for a hip scan around 8 weeks old.  This is to rule out any hip dysplasia that may accompany the talipes.

Exercises for Positional Talipes 

Exercises which can be performed to assist with talipes, should be completed with your child relaxed and it should not be painful. 

• One exercise involves holding above and below the ankle joint and gently moving the foot outwards and holding for a few seconds if tolerated aiming for 10-15 seconds times 3. Try to complete every nappy change.  

• Next, gently move their foot up towards the knee.

 Avoid limiting movement of the lower limb and avoid swaddling or wrapping feet too tightly is also recommended. 

Sometimes severe forms of Talipes may need a cast or orthotics. 

Positional talipes won’t affect your child’s ability to crawl or walk. Positional talipes usually resolves within the 6 months but if you have any concerns you should talk to your trusted health professional. 

Can Osteopathy help with Talipes?

When a newborn with positional talipes comes into Osteo 4 Families we have a look at the movements of the joints of the ankles, feet, knees, hips and pelvis. We assess if there are any restrictions through these joints that are influencing the foot position. We also assess the muscles, fascia and other structures which may be affecting the foot position. Give us a call if you would like more information 0416 161 411.

Keynotes:

Info and images sourced from : https://www.rch.org.au/uploadedFiles/Main/Content/ortho/factsheets/POSITIONAL-TALIPES.pdf 

https://raisingchildren.net.au/guides/a-z-health-reference/positional-talipes 

https://www.thewomens.org.au/images/uploads/fact-sheets/Positional-talipes-150219.pdf