A Colorado family is actively raising awareness about clubfoot, a common birth defect affecting approximately one in every 1,000 children. Their son, Cameron Malone, was born with this condition, which causes the foot to turn inward and downward. When left untreated, clubfoot can result in pain and mobility issues. Fortunately, modern treatment options allow affected children to lead lively and fulfilling lives.
Understanding Clubfoot and Its Treatment
Dr. Margaret Siobhan Murphy-Zane, a pediatric orthopedic surgeon at Children’s Colorado South Campus in Highlands Ranch, explains that clubfoot resembles a field hockey stick, with the toe pointing downward. Cameron’s parents, Samantha Criswell and Jeremy Malone, faced a concerning diagnosis when a 20-week ultrasound revealed their son had bilateral clubfoot. Both parents had also been treated for the condition during their childhood.
The Family’s Journey with Clubfoot
Samantha Criswell shares her own experiences with clubfoot treatment, which included casting and surgery at Children’s Hospital Colorado. “The methods back then were more experimental compared to what is available now,” Criswell recalls. Her son Cameron began receiving treatment at just 15 days old, utilizing the Ponseti method that focuses on gradual repositioning of the foot through a series of casts.
- Initial treatment began at 15 days old with a special cast.
- Weekly visits to the clubfoot clinic for evaluations and recasting.
- At eight weeks, Cameron underwent a minor procedure called a tenotomy to release the Achilles tendon.
Post-surgery, Cameron wore a special brace for three months, establishing a comprehensive treatment plan that ensured his feet were positioned correctly. Criswell documented their journey on social media, which inspired many parents who shared their own experiences with clubfoot.
Creating Awareness Through Personal Stories
The family’s social media outreach garnered an overwhelming response, with numerous comments from others who also had clubfoot or knew someone affected. “It created a supportive platform,” Criswell noted. “Parents can see that with proper treatment, children can thrive, turning what may seem like a daunting diagnosis into a manageable condition.”
Cameron’s Progress and Quality of Life
Now three years old, Cameron enjoys a normal childhood filled with running and playing, demonstrating that early intervention can yield excellent results. Although he still wears a brace at night, he engages in activities just like any other child his age.
“For him, this is normal. He doesn’t know anything else but running and playing,” said Malone. Cameron’s parents emphasize the importance of early diagnosis and treatment, encouraging expectant parents with similar diagnoses to consult medical professionals as soon as possible.
The Importance of Early Detection
Dr. Murphy-Zane highlights the benefits of prenatal visits for expectant parents. Diagnosing clubfoot during the 20-week scan provides families with peace of mind and a treatment plan before the baby’s arrival. For optimal results, infants are ideally treated with their first casts between the ages of two and six weeks, although children can receive care at any point in their development.
This Colorado family’s journey not only shines a light on the condition but also serves as a source of hope and encouragement for other families navigating similar challenges.
