Clubfoot is a congenital birth defect characterized by a malformed and usually twisted foot. Clubfoot is not uncommon and is an isolated problem for otherwise healthy babies. In this article we will discuss the signs and symptoms, causes, risk factors, complications, and treatments for clubfoot.
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with clubfoot after taking an antidepressant, you should contact our lawyers immediately for a free confidential case evaluation. You may be entitled to compensation for your injuries and we can help.
Clubfoot Signs & Symptoms
Clubfoot symptoms can vary from mild to severe, affecting one or both feet. Typical cases of clubfoot twist the top of your baby’s foot downward and inward. This defect also tends to lead to underdeveloped calf muscles in the affected leg. Despite its look, clubfoot does not cause any discomfort or pain.
Clubfoot Causes
Environmental factors play a role in causing clubfoot. Studies have strongly linked clubfoot to cigarette smoking during pregnancy, especially when a family history of clubfoot is already present. However, in July 2006, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a warning about the birth defect risks caused by using antidepressants during pregnancy. Antidepressants have been linked to an increased risk of clubfoot in children born to mothers who took them during pregnancy. The following is a list of antidepressant medications that have been linked to this type of birth defect:
- Paroxetine
- Zoloft (Sertraline)
- Celexa (Citalopram)
- Prozac (Fluoxetine)
- Lexapro (Escitalopram)
- Fluvoxamine
- Symbyax (fluoxetine and olanzapine)
- Bupropion
- Effexor (Venlafaxine)
Clubfoot Risk Factors
Clubfoot risk factors include:
- Antidepressants: Antidepressants have been linked to an increased risk of clubfoot in children born to mothers who took them during pregnancy.
- Sex: Males more commonly develop clubfoot.
- Family history: A family history of clubfoot will increase the risk of a child developing clubfoot.
- Smoking during pregnancy: Smoking increases the chances of a baby being born with clubfoot, especially in cases where there is a family history.
Clubfoot Complications
If treatment is neglected, clubfoot can become a heavy burden to bear. Not only is your child likely to have arthritis, but the unusual appearance of the foot may make body image a concern during the teen years. Because of the severe malformation, your child may not be able to walk normally on their foot. To compensate, they may walk on the balls of the feet, the outside of the feet or even the top of the feet in severe cases. These compensations may inhibit natural growth of the calf muscles, cause large sores or calluses on the feet, and result in an awkward gait.
Clubfoot Treatments
Clubfoot treatments begin immediately after birth because of the flexibility commonly seen in newborn’s joints and bones. Doctors try to restore the look and function of the defective foot before the child can walk in order to avoid long-term disabilities. Treatment options include:
- Stretching and casting
- Stretching and taping
- Surgery
For more information regarding these treatments, please visit Mayoclinic.com.
Do I have a Clubfoot Lawsuit?
The trial lawyers at The Senators (Ret.) Firm, LLP have decades of experience navigating through complex legislative and regulatory issues and litigating high stakes cases all over the nation. Our law firm focuses on the representation of plaintiffs in clubfoot lawsuits. We are currently accepting new cases in all 50 states.
Again, if you or a loved one has been diagnosed with clubfoot after taking an antidepressant, you should contact our lawyers immediately by clicking the link below or calling toll free 1-(949) 557-5800. You may be entitled to compensation for your injuries and we can help.