Clubfoot Treatment For Children Between Age 0-5 Years Is Free,  Says PCDF

By; USMAN NASIDI, ILIYA BELLO, Kaduna

In a bid to raise awareness about clubfoot, a congenital deformity that affects the foot and ankle, Positive Care and Development Foundation (PCDF) has organized a one-day sensitization programme to educate public health workers on the condition and its treatment associated with the illness.

The advocacy programme was aimed to dispel myths surrounding clubfoot and highlight the importance of early detection and it treatment.

During the event held on Monday at the Kaduna State Rehabilitation Board, the group disclosed that treatment for children between 0-5 years old with clubfoot is free at the various designated facilities. 

This initiative is aimed at increasing access to treatment and encourage community involvement in identifying and supporting children with clubfoot.

Speaking at the event, Dr. Yusuf Nuhu of Rapha Specialist Hospital emphasized that clubfoot is a treatable condition, especially in children under the age of 5. 

However, he stressed that early identification of the condition is crucial, and parents should be aware of the signs to look out for in their children.

According to him, clubfoot treatment is most effective when initiated early, and children under the age of five can benefit greatly from interventions.

Dr. Yusuf Nuhu lamented that, the organization is encouraging community members to refer individuals with clubfoot to the designated facilities responsible to take care of the treatment, with a promise of compensation for each successful referral. 

Similarly while delivering his speech, Dr. Aniko Ibrahim noted that treatment for adults with clubfoot is often more complex and expensive, typically requiring surgical intervention. 

However, unlike children, adults with clubfoot may require more invasive procedures, which can be costly and may not be covered by the free treatment program. 

This highlights the importance of early detection and treatment in children to avoid more severe and costly complications later in life.

According to him, the PCDF efforts aim to ensure that every child with clubfoot receives the necessary care and support that will lead a healthy and active life.

Meanwhile, the programme served as a platform for stakeholders to come together and discuss ways to improve awareness and access to treatment for clubfoot. 

He said, “by working together, PCDF and its partners hope to make a significant impact in the lives of children affected by this condition.”

“The programme also provided an opportunity for participants to learn about the Ponseti method, a non-surgical treatment approach that has been widely recognized as an effective way to correct clubfoot deformities in children. 

“This method involves a series of manipulations and plaster cast applications to gradually correct the foot deformity.” He noted .

Earlier in her remarks, the team lead of the group during the event, Madam Ruth Oluchi, highlighted that the major reason for organizing the program was to ensure proper awareness of clubfoot and its treatment. 

She emphasized that many people are still unaware of the condition and the available treatment options, which is why PCDF is working tirelessly to educate the public and provide access to care for those affected. 

Miss Ruth said, “by raising awareness and promoting early detection, PCDF hopes to make a significant impact in the lives of children with clubfoot.

“PCDF efforts is to raise awareness about clubfoot and provide access to treatment are crucial in ensuring that children with this condition receive the care they need to thrive. 

“Also by working together with healthcare professionals, community leaders, and families, PCDF hopes to make a lasting impact in the lives of children with clubfoot.

She however, noted that, the success of PCDF clubfoot treatment program will depend on the continued support and involvement of the community. 

Similarly, spreading the word about the importance of early detection and treatment, and by providing access to care for those affected, PCDF and its partners can help ensure that every child with clubfoot has the opportunity to lead a healthy and fulfilling life.

Meanwhile, the event concluded with a call to action, urging parents and caregivers to prioritize the health and well-being of their children by seeking medical attention if they notice any signs of clubfoot. 

“With early detection and treatment, children with clubfoot can lead normal, active lives, free from the physical limitations and social stigma associated with the condition,”  the team lead said.