The Ponseti Method

• The Ponseti Method is a proven solution for clubfoot, the global standard in fact*.

1. The first step is to begin with putting the foot(s) and leg(s) into a cast.
2. A series of new casts will be constructed around the child’s foot(s) every week until the foot(s) is restructured. After the re-structuring, more often than not, an ‘Achilles Tenotomy’ is performed – which is a cutting of the (shorter than normal) Achilles tendon in order for it to re-grow longer and reduce tension in the foot(s)/ankle(s).
3. After the Achilles Tendon Tenotomy, the foot(s) is placed in another cast, typically for 3 more weeks.
4. Once the casting series has restructured the foot(s) into the normal structure, the child will need to wear the foot abduction brace (FAB) – The child will need to wear this brace 23 ½ hours a day. EVERYDAY. Everyday for 3 months straight.
5. After this 3-month everyday full-time FAB wearing period, the child will continue to always wear the FAB while they sleep. They will need to continue wearing the FAB (about 12-14 hours a day) everyday, while sleeping. This schedule is strictly maintained until the child’s pediatric orthopedic specialist determines they no longer need to wear the FAB. If the casting begins in the first few weeks upon birth, completion is typically around 4 or 5 years of age; the age in which the child no longer needs to wear the FAB will depend on when they began treatment, along with numerous other variables, including when the doctor determines the child no longer needs to wear the brace.

“By studying the anatomy and functions of a baby’s foot, Dr. Ponseti developed a non-surgical method to correct clubfoot in infants through gentle manipulation of the feet followed by the application of plaster casts.  The success of the Ponseti Method has been well documented through patient studies and research articles” (Ponseti.info)