Has your newborn been diagnosed with positional talipes? Or have you noticed their little foot (or both feet) curling inwards and staying there?

In this episode, paediatric physiotherapist Lisa Rogers Sergeant breaks down everything parents need to know about this surprisingly common newborn foot condition.

Lisa explains the difference between positional talipes and structural club foot, why it happens (hint: it's all about room in the womb), and why vague advice at birth often means it isn't treated effectively. She walks through her five-pronged treatment approach (massage, stretch, strengthening, stimulating, and addressing restrictive clothing or positioning) ; and explains why the condition often looks worse again during growth spurts, illness, or new physical milestones like crawling and walking, even when treatment is working well.

If your baby's foot is turning in, this episode will help you understand exactly what's going on and what to do next.

In this episode:

• The difference between positional talipes and structural club foot
• Why positional talipes happens (risk factors: twins, big/long babies, small mums)
• Does it affect walking long-term? The honest answer
• The five-pronged approach: massage, stretch, strengthening, stimulation and reducing restrictions
• Why symptoms can flare during growth spurts, teething, or new skills like crawling
• Treating newborns vs. older, mobile babies
• When to see a health visitor, GP or physiotherapist instead of treating at home

Mentioned in this episode:

• Lisa's positional talipes video tutorial for parents: Treating Tiny Feet: A step-by-step demonstration on a model and a real baby
• Book a Remote Consultations with Lisa
• Book a Face to Face with Lisa at her Wimbledon clinic

Connect with Lisa here!

For help on:

Baby Flat Head Syndrome (Plagiocephaly and Torticollis), click here!

Positional Talipes (Correctable Club Foot), click here!