Does tendon transfer surgery treat clubfoot?

Clubfoot is a foot position in which the foot may turn inward and downward, with tight tissues and an uneven pull from muscles and tendons. The condition can be present from birth or recur after earlier treatment. Tendon transfer does not simply release a tight tendon; it moves a functioning tendon so its pull helps balance the foot.

The operation is considered only when the foot is flexible enough for the planned correction and the selected tendon can be spared without losing an essential movement. Casting, bracing, physiotherapy, or another procedure may be needed before or alongside surgery.

Arrange assessment with an orthopaedic foot specialist when the foot turns in again, shoes become difficult to wear, walking is painful, or the ankle and foot feel unbalanced. Bring details of previous casting, bracing, operations, and current activity limits.

The clinician will assess flexibility, muscle strength, skin condition, gait, and foot alignment. Ask which tendon would be moved, where it would be attached, how casting or a boot will be used, and how therapy will retrain the new movement.

Seek prompt care if the foot suddenly becomes cold, pale, numb, or severely painful, or if a child or adult cannot bear weight after an injury. After surgery, report increasing redness, drainage, fever, worsening swelling, or a cast that feels too tight.

Ask whether the deformity is flexible, whether tendon transfer alone is suitable, and what function the moved tendon will provide afterward. Discuss casting, footwear, physiotherapy, return to school or work, and how recurrence would be monitored.