The worldwide standard of treatment for clubfoot is the Ponseti Method — universally recognised, pioneered by Dr. Ignacio Ponseti (1914–2009) of the University of Iowa. It is effective, inexpensive, and gives outstanding results — with a 95% success rate worldwide.
How the Ponseti Method Works
The method involves manipulation, casting, tenotomy and long-term bracing — a very specific treatment regime that is easy, cheap, and effective in almost all cases.
The treatment has two phases:
- Correction Phase — The deformities of the bent foot are progressively corrected in a specific sequence. This manipulation and casting is performed very gently and painlessly. After each manipulation the foot is held in the corrected position with a plaster cast from toe to groin, changed every 7 days. Four to six casts are typically applied.
- Retention & Rehabilitation Phase — After casting, a minor Achilles tenotomy releases the tendon. The child then wears a foot abduction brace (boots and bar) — full-time for 3 months, then during sleep until age 4–5.
All Walk for Life Clubfoot Project clinics are staffed by trained physiotherapists delivering the Ponseti method.