Foot and Ankle Disorders
Pediatric foot deformity is a term that includes a range of conditions that may affect the bones, tendons, and muscles of the foot. Among those most frequently treated at Hospital for Special Surgery are tarsal coalition, cavus foot, accessory navicular, juvenile bunion, and clubfoot.
For parents seeking treatment for their children with foot deformities, it’s important to consult with a pediatric orthopedic surgeon with extensive experience in his or her field. Not only will they be aware of all the relevant non-operative techniques, but should surgery be necessary, surgeons experienced in performing such procedures on children have a better success rate.
Centers like Hospital for Special Surgery also offer patients and their families the benefits of general pediatricians on staff as well as anesthesiologists and physical therapists who specialize in pediatric care.
Treatment options for children with foot deformities can vary significantly. Pediatric orthopedists provide a range of non-operative and operative options specifically developed to address the distinct needs of children. These include ones focused on growth plate preservation.
The Ponseti technique has gained widespread acceptance as the treatment of choice for infants with clubfoot. If a child's physician meticulously follows the details of this technique and applies all of the elements without modification, parents can expect optimal results in the short and long term for children with clubfeet.