Rocker bottom feet also known as 'congenital vertical talus' is the term referred to the abnormal shape of the baby's feet, usually diagnosed at birth. One of both feet may be affected. It is not painful, but if left untreated, it could lead to serious disability and discomfort when walked on.
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| Vertical Talus |
It is characterised by the talus bone (which is a small bone that acts as a connector between the foot and the leg and helps transfer the weight across the ankle joint) being formed in the wrong position, making the other foot bones that are infront of the talus bone shift to top of it. The bottom of the foot has no arch but instead curves outwards resembling a rocking chair, hence the name.
Many cases of rocker bottom feet are associated with babies who either have neuromuscular diseases, chromosome disorders or other syndromes. The exact cause of this abnormality is not known. However, rocker bottom feet/congenital vertical talus can be corrected. Non-surgically or surgically.
Non-surgical treatments includes a course of stretching and casting designed to increase the flexibility of the foot and sometimes even fix it.
Surgical treatment includes an orthopaedic surgeon placing the bones in the correct position and applying pins to keep them in place. After surgery casts will be placed on the foot and stay there for as long as four to six weeks. After that, a special brace or shoes may be worn to prevent the vertical talus from returning.
Note: Around 85% of babies with rocker bottom feet have an abnormality affecting their brain or nervous system.
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