A Podological Approach to Congenital Orthopedic Foot Deformities: A Literature Review

Abstract

Congenital orthopedic foot deformities are significant health concerns that emerge due to abnormalities in the bones, soft tissues, and ligaments during prenatal development or at birth. Early detection of these deformities, followed by the implementation of appropriate treatment and follow-up programs, has a decisive influence on children’s motor development and overall quality of life. Podology, as a specialized field dedicated to the preservation, evaluation, and treatment of foot health, provides multifaceted approaches to the management of such congenital deformities. In this review, the process encompassing the diagnosis and classification of congenital foot deformities, as well as various treatment protocols, is examined from a podologic perspective. Drawing on current evidence in the literature, it addresses comprehensive approaches that include conservative interventions (orthoses, insoles, and footwear modifications), physical rehabilitation methods, and surgical treatments, while underscoring the importance of interdisciplinary teamwork and family education. In doing so, it demonstrates how podologic approaches can function as complementary and supportive measures in the therapeutic management of congenital foot deformities.