Timely Detection and Treatment Key to Correcting Clubfoot in Newborns

Kanpur: Timely intervention and parental awareness can help eliminate congenital deformities like clubfoot in newborns, stated experts at a special awareness event organized under the joint aegis of Cure India Foundation and the Orthopedics Department of GSVM Medical College.

The event, held in observance of Clubfoot Day, was spearheaded by the Head of the Orthopedics Department, Prof. Dr. Sanjay Kumar. He emphasized that lack of awareness among mothers often leads to late detection of clubfoot—a condition where a child is born with twisted feet, making walking difficult if left untreated.

“Early diagnosis, especially through prenatal ultrasound, allows for quicker treatment post-birth,” said Dr. Kumar. He added that under the National Child Health Program, Cure India Foundation is conducting a week-long awareness drive from June 3 to June 10, 2025, across various hospitals and medical institutes in India. The goal is to educate parents about the signs and timely treatment of clubfoot, enabling complete recovery for affected children.

Dr. Kumar proudly shared that GSVM Medical College has successfully treated over 5,000 children with clubfoot over the last seven years. Treatment is provided free of cost in the dedicated Clubfoot Clinic (Room 36) from Monday to Friday. “It’s important for parents to start treatment as soon as possible after birth, as delay reduces the chances of full recovery,” he advised.

Supporting this sentiment, Dr. Faheem Ansari highlighted the critical role of gynecologists in early detection. “An ultrasound can indicate the fetus’s limb condition in the womb. If abnormalities are identified, the newborn should be referred immediately for orthopedic assessment,” he explained.

Dr. Sanjay Kala, Principal of GSVM Medical College, and SIC Dr. R.K. Singh have ensured that all necessary resources are in place for effective treatment and rehabilitation of children suffering from clubfoot.

Dr. Kumar further encouraged mothers attending the event to follow through with complete treatment regimens and to act quickly post-delivery. The awareness program saw participation from several key orthopedic experts including Dr. Ravi Garg and coordinator Bina Kushwaha, along with junior residents of the department.

The campaign underscores the significance of early detection and consistent medical care in overcoming congenital deformities, offering hope to countless children born with clubfoot and their families.