568 chapter 60
This child was born with
a club foot. Village
rehabilitation workers used
a series of casts to straighten
it. First they corrected the
inner bend of the foot.
Then they gradually lifted her foot by cutting out rings on the cast, closing the space, and holding it
closed with a new strip of plaster. (See p. 567.)
After 4 months of casting, the
foot was in a good position.
IMPORTANT
After a club foot has been corrected, great
care is needed to prevent it from coming back.
Both exercises and braces are essential.
After strapping or casts have been removed,
continue the recommended stretching exercises
twice a day (see p. 115). Braces for use
after correcting club feet are on p. 116.
Many children need to wear braces until they
stop growing (age 13 to 18). If the problem
keeps returning, surgery is probably needed.
This child who had club feet needs to
use braces day and night, at least until he
begins to walk, and still at night after that.
Check his feet regularly, for years, for any
sign that the foot is beginning to turn in
again. Improved bracing may be required.
Disabled village Children