Positional Talipes Calcaneovalgus
Positional Talipes Calcaneovalgus* describes the position of one or both feet of a newborn's turning outwards and upwards.
It is a condition present at birth, and is thought to relate to how your baby’s feet have been positioned in the womb. The foot position will generally improve over time. The feet are normal, there are no bone or soft tissue deformities. It will not cause any problems with walking in the future.
* Positional relates to the flexible posture. Talipes refers to the foot and ankle, Calcaneo means the foot is positioned upwards and valgus refers to the heel bone directed outwards.
The condition is diagnosed by examining the baby’s feet. As this foot position is less common, babies should be reviewed by a physiotherapist.
How can I help my baby?
When should I seek advice?
How can I help my baby?
It usually improves naturally within the first few months; you can help by allowing your baby plenty of opportunity to kick and move their legs freely, ensuring clothing is not tight around their feet, and performing gentle stretching exercises regularly when they are relaxed. You can start these prior to your physiotherapy appointment.
The following link will give you advice:
When should I seek advice?
Speak to your Health Visitor or complete a Children and Young Person’s Physiotherapy self-referral form if:
- The foot presents in a calcaneovalgus position.
- The foot appears painful.
- The position is not improving within 6 to 8 weeks
In Cardiff and Vale University Health Board, babies presenting with positional talipes should be referred for a hip ultrasound scan to assess their hip development. Please speak to your Health Visitor to arrange this.
For further advice and guidance call Dolphin Physiotherapy Outpatients on 029 218 47577
Noah’s Ark Children’s Hospital of Wales
Heath Park
Cardiff
CF14 4XW
