Every year, approximately 2,000 children in South Africa are born with clubfoot, a congenital condition that, if left untreated, can lead to lifelong disability. This alarming statistic comes from STEPS, an organization dedicated to supporting parents and caregivers of children with the condition.
Understanding Clubfoot
Clubfoot is a birth defect where one or both feet are turned inward and rigid, making walking difficult without treatment. According to Karen Moss, founder of STEPS, early intervention is critical. “If untreated, the child will walk on the side or top of their feet, unable to wear shoes, leading to permanent disability,” Moss explained in a recent health segment.
The exact cause of clubfoot remains unknown, but it affects an estimated 1 in 500 births in South Africa—significantly higher than the global average of 1 in 750 to 1 in 800. Notably, South Africa’s Black population has the second-highest rate of clubfoot worldwide.
Early Treatment is Key
Moss emphasized that early diagnosis and treatment—ideally within the first weeks of life—can prevent long-term disability. The Ponseti method, a non-surgical treatment involving gentle manipulation and casting, has a 90-95% success rate when applied correctly. Moss’s own son, now 22, was successfully treated this way and leads an active, pain-free life.
However, access to treatment remains a challenge, particularly in rural areas. STEPS supports 48 specialist clinics across South Africa, but many families struggle with travel costs and misinformation. “Some communities still believe clubfoot is a curse, leading to stigma and delayed care,” Moss noted.
Call for Greater Awareness
STEPS urges health workers to identify and refer suspected cases immediately. The organization also provides educational resources for parents and medical professionals.
For more information, visit www.steps.org.za.
“Clubfoot is not a curse—it’s treatable,” Moss stressed. “With early intervention, children can walk, run, and live without limitations.”
