Packaging Problems

Packaging Problems

Every time a life enters this world, it is a momentous occasion. That tiny little bundle can bring so much love and joy into a home. Before they become a part of your life you spend so much time researching the best car seats, strollers, shoes, and other baby gear in order to prepare for their arrival. As a parent, you want to give them absolutely everything and also be informed about all of the new and exciting things to come. Unfortunately, we can’t always prepare ourselves for everything. In some cases, when our little ones enter the world, they can enter with differences. These differences can come in the form of illness or even deformity. One such deformity they can acquire is calcaneovalgus. This is a deformity of the foot that can be treated.

Calcaneovalgus is also known as a “packaging problem” in the podiatry world. That means that it is a deformity on the foot that can typically be corrected and looks a bit worse than it really is. This deformity occurs more often in females than it does in males. It occurs when the tibiotalar joint is incorrectly formed. The foot becomes hyperextended and at an unusual angle.

In general, calcaneovalgus occurs in about 5% of all newborns. Usually an overstretched Achilles tendon or other taught and rigid muscles will directly lead to the deformity. An x-ray can confirm a diagnosis of the deformity and then corrective action can be taken.

The prognosis for those suffering from this deformity is relatively positive. Overall, calcaneovalgus is a positional deformity. There are different types of treatment options depending on the severity of each case. In general, a child can be completely healed from the deformity.

Treatment

The severity of the deformity directly correlates with the type of treatment to be used on a patient. If the patient is only suffering from a mild case of the deformity, then stretching exercises at each diaper change can typically reverse the problem. Those with a moderate case of the deformity can typically be treated with a combination of stretching exercises and casting. Severe cases usually require surgery in order to be completely corrected.

If your child is suffering from calcaneovalgus and you are looking for a second opinion, look no further. Joseph Stuto, DPM, located in Brooklyn, New York has the right set of podiatrists for you. Dr. Joseph A. Stuto and Dr. Joseph C. Stuto can help you decide the best course of treatment for your child and their foot health. Call 718-624-7537 or make an appointment online. We care about your child’s feet and are here to give you the best professional foot care possible.

 

Contact Us