Some babies are born with a foot or hand that is bent. In clubfoot, for example, the foot turns inwards. For many of these conditions it is important to start treatment while the child is small.
Signs to look for
- A foot or hand that is bent or in an unusual position from birth
- A foot that turns inwards
- Limping or an uneven walk once the child starts walking
When to see a doctor
- As early as possible whenever a foot or hand looks unusual after birth
- When the child's walking looks abnormal
- When the bend comes back after earlier treatment
How it is evaluated
- A physical examination of the child
- X-ray when needed
- Step-by-step plaster casts, a brace or, when needed, surgery discussed with the parents
Emergency: after a serious accident, a suspected fracture with deformity, heavy bleeding, numbness or loss of movement, go to the nearest hospital emergency department immediately.