Dharmanagar, June 5: World Clubfoot Day was observed with a special awareness programme at the Clubfoot Clinic of North Tripura District Hospital, highlighting the importance of early diagnosis and treatment of clubfoot, a congenital condition that affects thousands of children worldwide. The programme was jointly organized by North Tripura District Hospital and the Anuska Foundation.
The event brought together doctors, healthcare professionals, and child health advocates to spread awareness about clubfoot, a condition in which a child is born with one or both feet twisted inward or downward. Speakers emphasized that with timely medical intervention, most children with clubfoot can lead normal and active lives without the need for surgery.
Among those present were District Hospital Superintendent Dr. Bhaskar Das, Orthopedic Surgeon Dr. Raja Nag, RBSK Medical Officer Dr. Niladri Sekhar Chatterjee, Dr. Biswajit Chakraborty, Dr. Pritam Debnath, casting technician Nabendu Chanda, and Anuska Foundation Programme Executive Shyam Shankar Deb.
Addressing the gathering, medical experts highlighted the effectiveness of the globally acclaimed Ponseti Method, which is recognized as the gold standard for clubfoot treatment. The method involves a series of gentle manipulations, corrective plaster casting, and the use of specially designed braces to gradually correct the deformity. Experts noted that when treatment begins soon after birth, the success rate is remarkably high, enabling children to walk, run, and participate in everyday activities like their peers.
The observance coincided with the birth anniversary of renowned Spanish orthopedic surgeon Dr. Ignacio Ponseti, whose pioneering treatment technique has transformed the lives of millions of children across the globe.
Doctors and health workers urged parents and caregivers to seek immediate medical attention if clubfoot is detected in newborns. They stressed that lack of awareness often leads to delayed treatment and lifelong disability.
The programme reinforced the message that awareness, early diagnosis, and timely treatment are key to eliminating the burden of clubfoot. Organizers also showcased Tripura’s continued commitment to strengthening child healthcare services and ensuring that life-changing treatments reach every child in need across the state.
