The importance of physiotherapy for children with clubfoot
29. April 2025
Physiotherapy is a key part of the comprehensive care of children diagnosed with pes equinovarus congenitus (PEC), i.e. a congenital malformation of the legs in which the feet are curled inwards and downwards. Physiotherapy is an integral part of the treatment already during the Ponseti method casting, it continues after any tenotomy and in the important phase of wearing splints. It is this that plays an important role in how effectively the child will use the newly straightened leg and how his locomotor system will continue to develop.
During this period, the child learns new movement patterns - he begins to climb, stand, go around furniture and walk - and all these skills require the correct involvement of muscle groups that were weakened or not involved in movement patterns as part of the treatment. Physiotherapy helps to activate these muscles, develops motor skills and leads the child to the correct walking pattern. It is also important as a prevention of relapse, i.e. the return of the deformity. Correctly conducted rehabilitation has a direct influence on the success of the entire treatment.
Education of parents is also very important. The physiotherapist shows the parents how they can properly exercise with the child at home, how to motivate them to move and how to properly carry or lay them down. All of this plays an important role in ensuring that the child develops naturally and effectively uses his motor skills in newly learned skills.
Regularity of physiotherapy is essential. A one-time visit is not enough, because the child's development is dynamic. It changes from week to week, and each developmental stage – whether it's rolling over, climbing or taking the first steps – brings different movement demands. Thanks to regular visits, the physiotherapist can monitor the child's development over time, recognize any deviations in time and adapt exercises to current needs.
At Ponseti Clinic, we therefore offer discounted physiotherapy packages, which include three individual therapies aimed directly at children with PEC. The physiotherapist monitors the child's current condition at each therapy session and adjusts the exercises according to their age and needs. These therapies are suitable not only immediately after removing the cast, but also when starting to wear splints or during development, when the child is learning new skills.
Physiotherapy is not just a supplement to treatment, but an inseparable part of it. It supports not only the functional abilities of the foot, but also the overall movement development of the child. Thanks to it, the child has a better chance of healthy, natural movement and a happy childhood without restrictions.
At Ponseti Clinic, we believe that quality physiotherapy is the key to the healthy movement development of every child with PEC. That is why we have created special physiotherapy packages that are tailor-made for these children - whether they are at the beginning of treatment or in one of the other developmental stages.
Do you want to know more about how therapies can help your child? Take a look at our physiotherapy package and treat your little one to care that will support his first steps in the right direction.
We are Ponseti Clinic.
We give strength to rise.