Idiopathic Talipes Equinovarus: Current Concepts.

J Am Acad Orthop Surg · Dec 15 2025 · Review

Mange TR, Bram JT, Scher DM, Doyle SM

From the Division of Pediatric Orthopedic Surgery, Hospital for Special Surgery, New York, NY

Pediatric Orthopaedics Foot & Ankle

SUMMARY — THE REDUCTIONConcise review of idiopathic clubfoot covering pathophysiology and anatomy, emphasizing largely nonsurgical treatment soon after birth, with surgery reserved for late-presenting or recurrent cases.
Abstract, as published

Idiopathic talipes equinovarus (clubfoot) is a musculoskeletal deformity that affects children worldwide with an incidence of about 0.2% in the United States. It is typically diagnosed at birth or by prenatal testing, and if untreated or undertreated, it can lead to progressive deformity and increasing dysfunction. Ideal treatment involves largely nonsurgical means shortly after birth, with surgery reserved for late-presenting or recurrent cases. As such, all orthopaedic surgeons should be able to recognize the clinical manifestations and general treatment pathway for clubfoot. This review aims to provide a concise overview of the condition including pathophysiology and anatomic alterations, while also outlining the current treatment options including management of recurrent or neglected disease.

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