Why Does Clubfoot Happen?

Clubfoot happens because the tendons (bands of tissue that connect muscles to bones) and muscles in and around the foot are shorter than they should be. Doctors don't know what causes it, and there's no way to ensure that your baby won't be born with it. But some things make clubfoot more likely.

What is the reason for clubfoot?

Clubfoot most often presents at birth. Clubfoot is caused by a shortened Achilles tendon, which causes the foot to turn in and under. Clubfoot is twice as common in boys. Treatment is necessary to correct clubfoot and is usually done in two phases — casting and bracing.

Is clubfoot genetic?

Clubfoot is considered a "multifactorial trait." Multifactorial inheritance means there are many factors involved in causing a birth defect. The factors are usually both genetic and environmental. Often one gender (either male or female) is affected more frequently than the other in multifactorial traits.