Types of Clubfoot

By now, you’ve probably heard that not all cases of clubfoot are the same.
And if you’re like I was, you might be wondering:
"What kind does my baby have? Is it mild or severe? Will the treatment be longer or harder?"

Let me try to explain this in simple words, from one parent to another, just the way I wish someone had explained it to me.

1. Idiopathic (or isolated) clubfoot

This is the most common type.
“Idiopathic” simply means it happens without being linked to any other medical condition or syndrome.
Your baby is completely healthy—their little feet are just turned inward.

Most babies with this type respond very well to the Ponseti Method, which involves weekly casts, a small procedure called tenotomy, and the use of special boots with a bar.

But here comes my personal note.
My daughter Halia was recently diagnosed with atypical clubfoot—a slightly more complex type that doesn’t always respond to the standard Ponseti treatment.

In Halia’s case, the Ponseti Method didn’t work as expected, and we’re currently exploring other options.
I’ll be sharing more about this in our blog soon, because I know there are other families like ours who need to feel seen and supported too.

2. Syndromic clubfoot

In this case, clubfoot is part of a larger medical condition or syndrome, often involving neurological or muscular challenges.
Treatment may be longer or more complex, but that doesn’t mean there’s no hope—just that it needs specialized care.

3. Positional clubfoot

This is the mildest type.
It happens when the baby’s foot gets stuck in a certain position during pregnancy but the bones, muscles, and tendons are healthy.

Usually, this type doesn’t require casting or surgery.
It may correct itself with gentle stretching, physical therapy, or simple exercises.

Every type of clubfoot comes with its own journey and pace.
But they all share the same goal:
Helping your baby walk confidently, step by step, with all the love and support in the world.