Definition of Clubfoot

Clubfoot: A common malformation of the foot that is evident at birth. The foot is turned in sharply so that the person seems to be walking on their ankle. The medical term for the common ("classic") type of clubfoot is talipes equinovarus. Clubfoot can sometimes, but not always, be corrected with a combination of surgery, bracing, and physical therapy. When it cannot be fully corrected, special shoes and braces are available to help the person achieve a more comfortable gait and avoid stressing and deforming other muscles and bones.

The Latin word talipes was compounded from talus (ankle) + pes (foot) since, with a clubfoot, the foot is turned in sharply and the person seems to be walking on their ankle. Equino- indicates the heel is elevated (like a horse's) and -varus indicates it is turned inward.