Does functional treatment of idiopathic clubfoot reduce the indication for surgery? Call for a widely accepted rating system

J Pediatr Orthop B. 2001 Oct;10(4):315-8.

Abstract

We present our experience of treatment by physiotherapy, continuous passive motion and strapping in a series of 100 clubfeet classified on a scale of severity according to Dimeglio. Twenty-five percent were good after conservative treatment, and 75% required an operation. There were no recurrences or additional procedures. Before the introduction of the functional treatment in our department, 100% required some sort of surgical intervention and 51% required an additional procedure. In comparison with the results published by Dimeglio et al., the greatest discordance is observed in grade 2 clubfeet.

MeSH terms

  • Clubfoot / surgery
  • Clubfoot / therapy*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Infant
  • Male
  • Motion Therapy, Continuous Passive
  • Treatment Outcome