clinical examination
Last reviewed 07/2021
The examination of club foot begins with inspection: the affected foot is likely to be held with the heel held in varus, there is likely to be keratinization of the lateral border of the foot, and calf muscles are atrophied.
Postural talipes must be distinguished. This is correctable with gentle passive dorsiflexion of the foot, unlike talipes equinovarus.
If the supine neonate maintains the foot in a plantar-flexed and inverted position while kicking, support the leg and gently scratch the side of the foot. In the normal foot there will be dorsiflexion, eversion and fanning or the toes. This does not occur if a talipes deformity exists.