[Congenital talipes equino-varus or clubfoot: value of physical therapy (report of 189 cases)].

The purpose of this study was to assess the efficacy of early physical therapy in a series of 189 cases of congenital talipes equino-varus (CTEV) or clubfoot. Physical therapy alone led to full functional recovery with no complications in 67 cases (35%). The outcome of treatment was directly correlated with the severity of the deformity, early therapy, and regular attendance at treatment sessions. Even when full recovery was not achieved, physical therapy led to a significant reduction of rigidity and greatly facilitated surgical treatment. These findings indicate that it is always valid to recommend physical therapy prior to attempting surgical.