Abstract
In this study, we evaluated the gait characteristics of children who had operated clubfoot, and compared the results with gait parameters without clubfoot or lower extremity abnormalities using gait analysis of the Anima system. Six children with plantigrade and asymptomatic clubfoot (four unilateral clubfeet and two bilateral clubfeet), operated with the posteromedial release method were included. Their mean age at surgery and follow-up time were 1.3 years and 7.5 year respectively. Three-dimensional computerized gait analysis was performed on all subjects, and time-distance, kinematic and kinetic gait characteristics were compared. Time-distance characteristics were almost identical. Ankle power flexion angles, plantar flexor moment, and generated power significantly decreased in the patients. This study shows that even when successfully operated, plantigrade and clinically asymptomatic children with clubfoot have significant gait deviations in ankle joints. Future studies are needed to investigate the accountable factors of gait deviations and possible long-term musculoskeletal morbidity of children with operated for clubfoot.
