Guest guest Posted May 31, 2002 Report Share Posted May 31, 2002 gueraslp wrote: >so far I was told that my baby can be born with severe birth >defects and malnutrition due to my getting preg so early after >surgery. I hope this is not true.. > Obviously, there exists a very slim chance for anyone, post-op or not, to give birth to a child with birth defects. But just by the anecdotal evidence of this group, I don't really think that a prediction of a higher risk of birth defects bears out in reality. There haven't been any definitive controlled studies that I know of, but if you make sure your OB monitors you closely and checks for vitamin levels and other such things, it's likely that you AND your baby will be just fine. Optimally it's best for you to wait until your weight stabilizes before seeking to try to become pg, but there are quite a few ladies here who got pg a little sooner than they intended. We're not here to encourage people to willfully go against their doctors' recommendations, but I don't think that post-op pregnancy should elicit such dire predictions from health professionals who should be better informed. That being said, since there haven't been any definitive long-term controlled studies of post-op pregnancy, there are a few unknowns. It's fairly certain, I believe, that in countries where pregnant mothers suffer from malnutrition, the babies can grow up to have learning difficulties and lower IQs. But the stress factors encountered in these impoverished countries must also be taken into account; babies in utero who are continually exposed to the body's stress hormone must surely be affected by that. Here in the US, it might not be as severe a problem. At any rate, much of the difference can probably be made up for with good prenatal and postnatal care, and alert, engaged parents and health professionals. Take charge of your own good health, and make sure you are well-cared-for by your obstetrician, and you'll probably do great. Glad you could join us! K Hang around and you'll get lots of support and friendship. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted May 31, 2002 Report Share Posted May 31, 2002 gueraslp wrote: >so far I was told that my baby can be born with severe birth >defects and malnutrition due to my getting preg so early after >surgery. I hope this is not true.. > Obviously, there exists a very slim chance for anyone, post-op or not, to give birth to a child with birth defects. But just by the anecdotal evidence of this group, I don't really think that a prediction of a higher risk of birth defects bears out in reality. There haven't been any definitive controlled studies that I know of, but if you make sure your OB monitors you closely and checks for vitamin levels and other such things, it's likely that you AND your baby will be just fine. Optimally it's best for you to wait until your weight stabilizes before seeking to try to become pg, but there are quite a few ladies here who got pg a little sooner than they intended. We're not here to encourage people to willfully go against their doctors' recommendations, but I don't think that post-op pregnancy should elicit such dire predictions from health professionals who should be better informed. That being said, since there haven't been any definitive long-term controlled studies of post-op pregnancy, there are a few unknowns. It's fairly certain, I believe, that in countries where pregnant mothers suffer from malnutrition, the babies can grow up to have learning difficulties and lower IQs. But the stress factors encountered in these impoverished countries must also be taken into account; babies in utero who are continually exposed to the body's stress hormone must surely be affected by that. Here in the US, it might not be as severe a problem. At any rate, much of the difference can probably be made up for with good prenatal and postnatal care, and alert, engaged parents and health professionals. Take charge of your own good health, and make sure you are well-cared-for by your obstetrician, and you'll probably do great. Glad you could join us! K Hang around and you'll get lots of support and friendship. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted May 31, 2002 Report Share Posted May 31, 2002 gueraslp wrote: >so far I was told that my baby can be born with severe birth >defects and malnutrition due to my getting preg so early after >surgery. I hope this is not true.. > Obviously, there exists a very slim chance for anyone, post-op or not, to give birth to a child with birth defects. But just by the anecdotal evidence of this group, I don't really think that a prediction of a higher risk of birth defects bears out in reality. There haven't been any definitive controlled studies that I know of, but if you make sure your OB monitors you closely and checks for vitamin levels and other such things, it's likely that you AND your baby will be just fine. Optimally it's best for you to wait until your weight stabilizes before seeking to try to become pg, but there are quite a few ladies here who got pg a little sooner than they intended. We're not here to encourage people to willfully go against their doctors' recommendations, but I don't think that post-op pregnancy should elicit such dire predictions from health professionals who should be better informed. That being said, since there haven't been any definitive long-term controlled studies of post-op pregnancy, there are a few unknowns. It's fairly certain, I believe, that in countries where pregnant mothers suffer from malnutrition, the babies can grow up to have learning difficulties and lower IQs. But the stress factors encountered in these impoverished countries must also be taken into account; babies in utero who are continually exposed to the body's stress hormone must surely be affected by that. Here in the US, it might not be as severe a problem. At any rate, much of the difference can probably be made up for with good prenatal and postnatal care, and alert, engaged parents and health professionals. Take charge of your own good health, and make sure you are well-cared-for by your obstetrician, and you'll probably do great. Glad you could join us! K Hang around and you'll get lots of support and friendship. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted June 13, 2002 Report Share Posted June 13, 2002 Welcome to the group ! Congratulations on your weight loss. That's GREAT!! Normally it is recommended that you wait at least a year before trying to conceive but check with your surgeon and your OB to see what they think. Nette new to group My name is and I had GBS on Nov. 19. I am down 110 lbs so far. I also suffer from PCOS. My question is is it safe to go ahead and start trying to get pregnant at 10 months out from surgery? My PCOS is getting better, so far I have had 2 periods in a row right on time. I go to see my GYN in July and I am going to have him run blood work to check all my levels. Any suggestions? Thanks, Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted June 13, 2002 Report Share Posted June 13, 2002 Welcome to the group ! Congratulations on your weight loss. That's GREAT!! Normally it is recommended that you wait at least a year before trying to conceive but check with your surgeon and your OB to see what they think. Nette new to group My name is and I had GBS on Nov. 19. I am down 110 lbs so far. I also suffer from PCOS. My question is is it safe to go ahead and start trying to get pregnant at 10 months out from surgery? My PCOS is getting better, so far I have had 2 periods in a row right on time. I go to see my GYN in July and I am going to have him run blood work to check all my levels. Any suggestions? Thanks, Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted June 13, 2002 Report Share Posted June 13, 2002 Welcome to the group ! Congratulations on your weight loss. That's GREAT!! Normally it is recommended that you wait at least a year before trying to conceive but check with your surgeon and your OB to see what they think. Nette new to group My name is and I had GBS on Nov. 19. I am down 110 lbs so far. I also suffer from PCOS. My question is is it safe to go ahead and start trying to get pregnant at 10 months out from surgery? My PCOS is getting better, so far I have had 2 periods in a row right on time. I go to see my GYN in July and I am going to have him run blood work to check all my levels. Any suggestions? Thanks, Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted January 2, 2003 Report Share Posted January 2, 2003 I have to agree there is no better treatment for c/f. Then the Poseti method. And the fact of the child NOT being put through great pain to get the correction is just wonderful. My grandsons feet are just beautiful and he is 10 months old he got his first cast at 12 days old he had 5 cast in all and the DBB full time for 3 months and now he is in the DBB only while he sleeps about 14 hours and one could not tell by looking at his feet that he was born with c/f. Leora and Dylan 3-3-02 blcf Dessi Pickett wrote: a, You are about 6-8 hours away from the best doctor in US and I think in the world. Ignacio Ponseti uses about 5 casts and afterwards keeps the correction with shoes on a bar - DBB. The treatment takes just a few weeks. The shoes with the bar need to be on first 23 hours/day for about 3 months than gradually down - 18, 16 maybe about 14 for about another couple of years. He is the creator of the Ponseti method - of course after his name. He and his staff are just phenomenal!!!! We had the best experience ever in Iowa. My son - was born September with bilateral club foot and after interviewing a bunch of doctors with decide to go to the best! You will never regret it. The treatment is not a big deal - same with the shoes. Ponseti is also very inexpensive. slept during the casting. Now he is in the bar 23 hours and Feb 10 we will go again to Iowa for a check up and hopefully reducing to 18 hours. I took for a couple of check ups - making too big of a deal about the shoes - to Early - Children's Hospital LA ( we are in Orange County, CA) where Early is practicing the Ponseti method. There is such a difference - the people, the service.... and we are being charged for whatever... and a lot. Well, I am sure the other parents on this board will give you more info but my advice is - go to Iowa. Dessi New to group Hello! My name is a. I am the proud mother of Carston who was born December 1, 2002 w/a clubfoot. My husband & I were told that our son had a clubfoot during an ultrasound in July. We had 2 more ultrasounds there after to confirm the results. On December 6th, Carston had his first cast put on. Carston's orthopaedic surgeon said that Carston's left foot is very stiff & will require several years of treatment. Surgery was discussed briefly and if necessary we will travel to Shreveport, LA to the Shriner's Hospital. By the way, we live in Tulsa, OK. I knew that treatment would be long-term, but to hear it from the doctor was heartbreaking. I cried when we left the office. He's had 4 other casts since then. Poor Carston screams his head off every time we go back. It still breaks my heart each time & I refuse to go alone. His last cast was put on December 23rd, but he managed to kick it partially off. That cast had to be cut off in the ER on December 29th. So far another cast has not been put back on because his doctor has been out of town. We have an appointment tomorrow morning for his 6th casting. The casts go up to the groin area & are plaster. Carston's doctor said that he was making a lot of progress, but I'm afraid that w/the cast being off since Sunday he's lost a lot of the correction. That really makes me angry & sad. Well, I look forward to hearing from other parent's on this board. I will appreciate all the info I can get. a Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted January 2, 2003 Report Share Posted January 2, 2003 I have to agree there is no better treatment for c/f. Then the Poseti method. And the fact of the child NOT being put through great pain to get the correction is just wonderful. My grandsons feet are just beautiful and he is 10 months old he got his first cast at 12 days old he had 5 cast in all and the DBB full time for 3 months and now he is in the DBB only while he sleeps about 14 hours and one could not tell by looking at his feet that he was born with c/f. Leora and Dylan 3-3-02 blcf Dessi Pickett wrote: a, You are about 6-8 hours away from the best doctor in US and I think in the world. Ignacio Ponseti uses about 5 casts and afterwards keeps the correction with shoes on a bar - DBB. The treatment takes just a few weeks. The shoes with the bar need to be on first 23 hours/day for about 3 months than gradually down - 18, 16 maybe about 14 for about another couple of years. He is the creator of the Ponseti method - of course after his name. He and his staff are just phenomenal!!!! We had the best experience ever in Iowa. My son - was born September with bilateral club foot and after interviewing a bunch of doctors with decide to go to the best! You will never regret it. The treatment is not a big deal - same with the shoes. Ponseti is also very inexpensive. slept during the casting. Now he is in the bar 23 hours and Feb 10 we will go again to Iowa for a check up and hopefully reducing to 18 hours. I took for a couple of check ups - making too big of a deal about the shoes - to Early - Children's Hospital LA ( we are in Orange County, CA) where Early is practicing the Ponseti method. There is such a difference - the people, the service.... and we are being charged for whatever... and a lot. Well, I am sure the other parents on this board will give you more info but my advice is - go to Iowa. Dessi New to group Hello! My name is a. I am the proud mother of Carston who was born December 1, 2002 w/a clubfoot. My husband & I were told that our son had a clubfoot during an ultrasound in July. We had 2 more ultrasounds there after to confirm the results. On December 6th, Carston had his first cast put on. Carston's orthopaedic surgeon said that Carston's left foot is very stiff & will require several years of treatment. Surgery was discussed briefly and if necessary we will travel to Shreveport, LA to the Shriner's Hospital. By the way, we live in Tulsa, OK. I knew that treatment would be long-term, but to hear it from the doctor was heartbreaking. I cried when we left the office. He's had 4 other casts since then. Poor Carston screams his head off every time we go back. It still breaks my heart each time & I refuse to go alone. His last cast was put on December 23rd, but he managed to kick it partially off. That cast had to be cut off in the ER on December 29th. So far another cast has not been put back on because his doctor has been out of town. We have an appointment tomorrow morning for his 6th casting. The casts go up to the groin area & are plaster. Carston's doctor said that he was making a lot of progress, but I'm afraid that w/the cast being off since Sunday he's lost a lot of the correction. That really makes me angry & sad. Well, I look forward to hearing from other parent's on this board. I will appreciate all the info I can get. a Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted January 2, 2003 Report Share Posted January 2, 2003 I have to agree there is no better treatment for c/f. Then the Poseti method. And the fact of the child NOT being put through great pain to get the correction is just wonderful. My grandsons feet are just beautiful and he is 10 months old he got his first cast at 12 days old he had 5 cast in all and the DBB full time for 3 months and now he is in the DBB only while he sleeps about 14 hours and one could not tell by looking at his feet that he was born with c/f. Leora and Dylan 3-3-02 blcf Dessi Pickett wrote: a, You are about 6-8 hours away from the best doctor in US and I think in the world. Ignacio Ponseti uses about 5 casts and afterwards keeps the correction with shoes on a bar - DBB. The treatment takes just a few weeks. The shoes with the bar need to be on first 23 hours/day for about 3 months than gradually down - 18, 16 maybe about 14 for about another couple of years. He is the creator of the Ponseti method - of course after his name. He and his staff are just phenomenal!!!! We had the best experience ever in Iowa. My son - was born September with bilateral club foot and after interviewing a bunch of doctors with decide to go to the best! You will never regret it. The treatment is not a big deal - same with the shoes. Ponseti is also very inexpensive. slept during the casting. Now he is in the bar 23 hours and Feb 10 we will go again to Iowa for a check up and hopefully reducing to 18 hours. I took for a couple of check ups - making too big of a deal about the shoes - to Early - Children's Hospital LA ( we are in Orange County, CA) where Early is practicing the Ponseti method. There is such a difference - the people, the service.... and we are being charged for whatever... and a lot. Well, I am sure the other parents on this board will give you more info but my advice is - go to Iowa. Dessi New to group Hello! My name is a. I am the proud mother of Carston who was born December 1, 2002 w/a clubfoot. My husband & I were told that our son had a clubfoot during an ultrasound in July. We had 2 more ultrasounds there after to confirm the results. On December 6th, Carston had his first cast put on. Carston's orthopaedic surgeon said that Carston's left foot is very stiff & will require several years of treatment. Surgery was discussed briefly and if necessary we will travel to Shreveport, LA to the Shriner's Hospital. By the way, we live in Tulsa, OK. I knew that treatment would be long-term, but to hear it from the doctor was heartbreaking. I cried when we left the office. He's had 4 other casts since then. Poor Carston screams his head off every time we go back. It still breaks my heart each time & I refuse to go alone. His last cast was put on December 23rd, but he managed to kick it partially off. That cast had to be cut off in the ER on December 29th. So far another cast has not been put back on because his doctor has been out of town. We have an appointment tomorrow morning for his 6th casting. The casts go up to the groin area & are plaster. Carston's doctor said that he was making a lot of progress, but I'm afraid that w/the cast being off since Sunday he's lost a lot of the correction. That really makes me angry & sad. Well, I look forward to hearing from other parent's on this board. I will appreciate all the info I can get. a Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted January 2, 2003 Report Share Posted January 2, 2003 a, Hi, I posted to you at Parents Place, but just wanted to welcome you! There are many experienced parents here to help. As you can tell, many of us have had such good results once switching to the Ponseti method, that you're going to hear a lot about it! About crying during casting.. as others have said, some babies do continue to cry during Ponseti casting, but many, if not most, don't cry AT ALL. My daughter didn't, after having screamed -- and to me, it was in pain -- during her previous castings. It's an indication of how different the manipulation is. Clubfoot does require monitoring through childhood, but there's no reason for treatment itself to last for " years " . Casting, done right, should only take a couple months. Then you have a corrected foot, and the brace is worn only to hold the correction (for three months full time, and then only at night for a couple years). Surgery isn't a " quick fix " .. post-op casts are worn for 6 to 12 weeks, I believe, then there might be bracing of some sort prescribed after that. There can be relapses, and then those children would need further surgeries. Surgically oriented doctors will try casting for as long as 6 months or more, in a holding pattern of sorts before doing the surgery, if only to " stretch the skin " , knowing that it's not likely to correct the foot. In the meantime, that same child could've been treated by a Ponseti method doctor whose casting would've been effective, and the surgery no longer needed. The use of this method is growing, but still sometimes requires travel for parents seeking it out. I realize that thinking about changing doctors is overwhelming at this point and might seem impossible.. but if your gut is telling you that something's " not right " , don't ignore it. If there's any way we all can help support you in seeking another option, just ask.. Let us know about the appointment tomorrow! Best wishes, and > Hello! My name is a. I am the proud mother of Carston who was > born December 1, 2002 w/a clubfoot. My husband & I were told that > our son had a clubfoot during an ultrasound in July. We had 2 more > ultrasounds there after to confirm the results. On December 6th, > Carston had his first cast put on. Carston's orthopaedic surgeon > said that Carston's left foot is very stiff & will require several > years of treatment. Surgery was discussed briefly and if necessary > we will travel to Shreveport, LA to the Shriner's Hospital. By the > way, we live in Tulsa, OK. I knew that treatment would be long- term, > but to hear it from the doctor was heartbreaking. I cried when we > left the office. He's had 4 other casts since then. Poor Carston > screams his head off every time we go back. It still breaks my heart > each time & I refuse to go alone. His last cast was put on December > 23rd, but he managed to kick it partially off. That cast had to be > cut off in the ER on December 29th. So far another cast has not been > put back on because his doctor has been out of town. We have an > appointment tomorrow morning for his 6th casting. The casts go up to > the groin area & are plaster. Carston's doctor said that he was > making a lot of progress, but I'm afraid that w/the cast being off > since Sunday he's lost a lot of the correction. That really makes me > angry & sad. Well, I look forward to hearing from other parent's on > this board. I will appreciate all the info I can get. > > a Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted January 2, 2003 Report Share Posted January 2, 2003 a, Hi, I posted to you at Parents Place, but just wanted to welcome you! There are many experienced parents here to help. As you can tell, many of us have had such good results once switching to the Ponseti method, that you're going to hear a lot about it! About crying during casting.. as others have said, some babies do continue to cry during Ponseti casting, but many, if not most, don't cry AT ALL. My daughter didn't, after having screamed -- and to me, it was in pain -- during her previous castings. It's an indication of how different the manipulation is. Clubfoot does require monitoring through childhood, but there's no reason for treatment itself to last for " years " . Casting, done right, should only take a couple months. Then you have a corrected foot, and the brace is worn only to hold the correction (for three months full time, and then only at night for a couple years). Surgery isn't a " quick fix " .. post-op casts are worn for 6 to 12 weeks, I believe, then there might be bracing of some sort prescribed after that. There can be relapses, and then those children would need further surgeries. Surgically oriented doctors will try casting for as long as 6 months or more, in a holding pattern of sorts before doing the surgery, if only to " stretch the skin " , knowing that it's not likely to correct the foot. In the meantime, that same child could've been treated by a Ponseti method doctor whose casting would've been effective, and the surgery no longer needed. The use of this method is growing, but still sometimes requires travel for parents seeking it out. I realize that thinking about changing doctors is overwhelming at this point and might seem impossible.. but if your gut is telling you that something's " not right " , don't ignore it. If there's any way we all can help support you in seeking another option, just ask.. Let us know about the appointment tomorrow! Best wishes, and > Hello! My name is a. I am the proud mother of Carston who was > born December 1, 2002 w/a clubfoot. My husband & I were told that > our son had a clubfoot during an ultrasound in July. We had 2 more > ultrasounds there after to confirm the results. On December 6th, > Carston had his first cast put on. Carston's orthopaedic surgeon > said that Carston's left foot is very stiff & will require several > years of treatment. Surgery was discussed briefly and if necessary > we will travel to Shreveport, LA to the Shriner's Hospital. By the > way, we live in Tulsa, OK. I knew that treatment would be long- term, > but to hear it from the doctor was heartbreaking. I cried when we > left the office. He's had 4 other casts since then. Poor Carston > screams his head off every time we go back. It still breaks my heart > each time & I refuse to go alone. His last cast was put on December > 23rd, but he managed to kick it partially off. That cast had to be > cut off in the ER on December 29th. So far another cast has not been > put back on because his doctor has been out of town. We have an > appointment tomorrow morning for his 6th casting. The casts go up to > the groin area & are plaster. Carston's doctor said that he was > making a lot of progress, but I'm afraid that w/the cast being off > since Sunday he's lost a lot of the correction. That really makes me > angry & sad. Well, I look forward to hearing from other parent's on > this board. I will appreciate all the info I can get. > > a Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted January 2, 2003 Report Share Posted January 2, 2003 a, Hi, I posted to you at Parents Place, but just wanted to welcome you! There are many experienced parents here to help. As you can tell, many of us have had such good results once switching to the Ponseti method, that you're going to hear a lot about it! About crying during casting.. as others have said, some babies do continue to cry during Ponseti casting, but many, if not most, don't cry AT ALL. My daughter didn't, after having screamed -- and to me, it was in pain -- during her previous castings. It's an indication of how different the manipulation is. Clubfoot does require monitoring through childhood, but there's no reason for treatment itself to last for " years " . Casting, done right, should only take a couple months. Then you have a corrected foot, and the brace is worn only to hold the correction (for three months full time, and then only at night for a couple years). Surgery isn't a " quick fix " .. post-op casts are worn for 6 to 12 weeks, I believe, then there might be bracing of some sort prescribed after that. There can be relapses, and then those children would need further surgeries. Surgically oriented doctors will try casting for as long as 6 months or more, in a holding pattern of sorts before doing the surgery, if only to " stretch the skin " , knowing that it's not likely to correct the foot. In the meantime, that same child could've been treated by a Ponseti method doctor whose casting would've been effective, and the surgery no longer needed. The use of this method is growing, but still sometimes requires travel for parents seeking it out. I realize that thinking about changing doctors is overwhelming at this point and might seem impossible.. but if your gut is telling you that something's " not right " , don't ignore it. If there's any way we all can help support you in seeking another option, just ask.. Let us know about the appointment tomorrow! Best wishes, and > Hello! My name is a. I am the proud mother of Carston who was > born December 1, 2002 w/a clubfoot. My husband & I were told that > our son had a clubfoot during an ultrasound in July. We had 2 more > ultrasounds there after to confirm the results. On December 6th, > Carston had his first cast put on. Carston's orthopaedic surgeon > said that Carston's left foot is very stiff & will require several > years of treatment. Surgery was discussed briefly and if necessary > we will travel to Shreveport, LA to the Shriner's Hospital. By the > way, we live in Tulsa, OK. I knew that treatment would be long- term, > but to hear it from the doctor was heartbreaking. I cried when we > left the office. He's had 4 other casts since then. Poor Carston > screams his head off every time we go back. It still breaks my heart > each time & I refuse to go alone. His last cast was put on December > 23rd, but he managed to kick it partially off. That cast had to be > cut off in the ER on December 29th. So far another cast has not been > put back on because his doctor has been out of town. We have an > appointment tomorrow morning for his 6th casting. The casts go up to > the groin area & are plaster. Carston's doctor said that he was > making a lot of progress, but I'm afraid that w/the cast being off > since Sunday he's lost a lot of the correction. That really makes me > angry & sad. Well, I look forward to hearing from other parent's on > this board. I will appreciate all the info I can get. > > a Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted March 8, 2003 Report Share Posted March 8, 2003 Hello Jill! First of all, welcome! You've found a great place full of lots of people who are going through (or have been through) many of the same things you are. I have found this group a wonderful resource for information as well as a source of support from other clubfoot parents. We also had a very difficult time when our son first started wearing the DBB. Are you aware whether your doctor uses the Ponseti method of correcting clubfeet, and how closely your doctor follows the method? If so, using the DBB full-time for 3 months following the casting is standard, and very important. The feet have been moved quite a distance from their original position, and they must now be held in this position full-time for a while in order for them to stay in the corrected position. If this doesn't happen, the feet tend to try to return to their original position. You said that Brodie won't wear the DBB. Can you describe what happens when you put him in it? It is a difficult adjustment for most babies -- usually it takes a couple of days to get used to (and they will kick and fight it, and scream, and it can be VERY hard on the parents...) The baby has been used to being able to kick both separately up until this point, and now all of a sudden he has to learn to move both legs together. Make sure that the bar is adjusted properly -- What instructions were you given? According to the Ponseti method, the insides of the baby's heels (when attached to the bar, rotated outwards usually at 70 degrees) should be the same distance apart as the baby's shoulders, or slightly more. Sometimes people reccomend that you let the baby wear the shoes first for a while, to get used to them before attaching them to the bar. If you browse through the " photos " section, you will find several pictures of babies wearing Dennis Browne Bars (our is under " Gavin D " ). Does Brodie's bar look like this when on? You said that he has been out of casts for 3 weeks now, and that his feet are already turning back in. In this case, it is quite likely that Brodie will need another cast before being able to start wearing the DBB, in order to regain the correction that he has lost in the meantime. (If his feet aren't fully corrected, it might be impossible for him to wear the bar.) I would definitely contact your doctor in any case, and let her know what is going on. The longer you leave it, the more the feet will regress. I know it is hard -- but you CAN'T GIVE UP -- remember that no matter how much effort it takes right now, and no matter how hard it seems, you are doing the best thing for your baby's feet. Call your doctor -- call the orthoticist who gave you the DBB -- if Brodie absolutely CAN'T tolerate the DBB (ie: when it is properly adjusted and he screams in pain, insteat of in anger at his restricted motion) then you might want to question whether his feet have either lost their correction, or whether they were properly corrected in the first place. I don't want to scare you, but if your doctor can't answer your questions to your satisfaction, then perhaps you should have someone else look at Brodie's feet. Best of luck to you and Brodie! Keep us posted and let us know how things progress. There are lots of people in this group (who know far more than I do about clubfeet) who can probably help out with information about different doctors in your area, etc. Have you checked out Dr. Ponseti's website? Here it is: http://www.vh.org/Patients/IHB/Ortho/Peds/Clubfeet/Clubfeet.html Take care & hang in there... Rita with baby Gavin Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted March 8, 2003 Report Share Posted March 8, 2003 Hello Jill! First of all, welcome! You've found a great place full of lots of people who are going through (or have been through) many of the same things you are. I have found this group a wonderful resource for information as well as a source of support from other clubfoot parents. We also had a very difficult time when our son first started wearing the DBB. Are you aware whether your doctor uses the Ponseti method of correcting clubfeet, and how closely your doctor follows the method? If so, using the DBB full-time for 3 months following the casting is standard, and very important. The feet have been moved quite a distance from their original position, and they must now be held in this position full-time for a while in order for them to stay in the corrected position. If this doesn't happen, the feet tend to try to return to their original position. You said that Brodie won't wear the DBB. Can you describe what happens when you put him in it? It is a difficult adjustment for most babies -- usually it takes a couple of days to get used to (and they will kick and fight it, and scream, and it can be VERY hard on the parents...) The baby has been used to being able to kick both separately up until this point, and now all of a sudden he has to learn to move both legs together. Make sure that the bar is adjusted properly -- What instructions were you given? According to the Ponseti method, the insides of the baby's heels (when attached to the bar, rotated outwards usually at 70 degrees) should be the same distance apart as the baby's shoulders, or slightly more. Sometimes people reccomend that you let the baby wear the shoes first for a while, to get used to them before attaching them to the bar. If you browse through the " photos " section, you will find several pictures of babies wearing Dennis Browne Bars (our is under " Gavin D " ). Does Brodie's bar look like this when on? You said that he has been out of casts for 3 weeks now, and that his feet are already turning back in. In this case, it is quite likely that Brodie will need another cast before being able to start wearing the DBB, in order to regain the correction that he has lost in the meantime. (If his feet aren't fully corrected, it might be impossible for him to wear the bar.) I would definitely contact your doctor in any case, and let her know what is going on. The longer you leave it, the more the feet will regress. I know it is hard -- but you CAN'T GIVE UP -- remember that no matter how much effort it takes right now, and no matter how hard it seems, you are doing the best thing for your baby's feet. Call your doctor -- call the orthoticist who gave you the DBB -- if Brodie absolutely CAN'T tolerate the DBB (ie: when it is properly adjusted and he screams in pain, insteat of in anger at his restricted motion) then you might want to question whether his feet have either lost their correction, or whether they were properly corrected in the first place. I don't want to scare you, but if your doctor can't answer your questions to your satisfaction, then perhaps you should have someone else look at Brodie's feet. Best of luck to you and Brodie! Keep us posted and let us know how things progress. There are lots of people in this group (who know far more than I do about clubfeet) who can probably help out with information about different doctors in your area, etc. Have you checked out Dr. Ponseti's website? Here it is: http://www.vh.org/Patients/IHB/Ortho/Peds/Clubfeet/Clubfeet.html Take care & hang in there... Rita with baby Gavin Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted March 8, 2003 Report Share Posted March 8, 2003 Hello Jill! First of all, welcome! You've found a great place full of lots of people who are going through (or have been through) many of the same things you are. I have found this group a wonderful resource for information as well as a source of support from other clubfoot parents. We also had a very difficult time when our son first started wearing the DBB. Are you aware whether your doctor uses the Ponseti method of correcting clubfeet, and how closely your doctor follows the method? If so, using the DBB full-time for 3 months following the casting is standard, and very important. The feet have been moved quite a distance from their original position, and they must now be held in this position full-time for a while in order for them to stay in the corrected position. If this doesn't happen, the feet tend to try to return to their original position. You said that Brodie won't wear the DBB. Can you describe what happens when you put him in it? It is a difficult adjustment for most babies -- usually it takes a couple of days to get used to (and they will kick and fight it, and scream, and it can be VERY hard on the parents...) The baby has been used to being able to kick both separately up until this point, and now all of a sudden he has to learn to move both legs together. Make sure that the bar is adjusted properly -- What instructions were you given? According to the Ponseti method, the insides of the baby's heels (when attached to the bar, rotated outwards usually at 70 degrees) should be the same distance apart as the baby's shoulders, or slightly more. Sometimes people reccomend that you let the baby wear the shoes first for a while, to get used to them before attaching them to the bar. If you browse through the " photos " section, you will find several pictures of babies wearing Dennis Browne Bars (our is under " Gavin D " ). Does Brodie's bar look like this when on? You said that he has been out of casts for 3 weeks now, and that his feet are already turning back in. In this case, it is quite likely that Brodie will need another cast before being able to start wearing the DBB, in order to regain the correction that he has lost in the meantime. (If his feet aren't fully corrected, it might be impossible for him to wear the bar.) I would definitely contact your doctor in any case, and let her know what is going on. The longer you leave it, the more the feet will regress. I know it is hard -- but you CAN'T GIVE UP -- remember that no matter how much effort it takes right now, and no matter how hard it seems, you are doing the best thing for your baby's feet. Call your doctor -- call the orthoticist who gave you the DBB -- if Brodie absolutely CAN'T tolerate the DBB (ie: when it is properly adjusted and he screams in pain, insteat of in anger at his restricted motion) then you might want to question whether his feet have either lost their correction, or whether they were properly corrected in the first place. I don't want to scare you, but if your doctor can't answer your questions to your satisfaction, then perhaps you should have someone else look at Brodie's feet. Best of luck to you and Brodie! Keep us posted and let us know how things progress. There are lots of people in this group (who know far more than I do about clubfeet) who can probably help out with information about different doctors in your area, etc. Have you checked out Dr. Ponseti's website? Here it is: http://www.vh.org/Patients/IHB/Ortho/Peds/Clubfeet/Clubfeet.html Take care & hang in there... Rita with baby Gavin Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted March 9, 2003 Report Share Posted March 9, 2003 Jill, Rita had some great advice. Also, is he kicking the shoes off? What brand of shoes does he have, and do they have inserts? Check the files of this group and open the file by " castlady " for the shoes. She has 3 very useful pages that troubleshoot problems with the shoes and bar. I agree though that he needs to see his doctor. Good luck, hang in there! Bethany New to group Hi. My name is Jill, my son, Brodie, is 3 months old with bi-lateral clubfoot. He is supposed to be wearing the Dennis Brown Bar, well, he doesnt. I was wondering if anyone else here goes to The Nemours Childrens Clinic in Pensacola, Fl. More specifically to see Dr. Leah Pike. I am concerned something is not right with the bar. He has been casted since birth and had the tendon surgery already. But, he will not wear the shoes. I am looking to get some ideas on what to do, his feet are already turning back in, he has been out of his last cast for 3 weeks. Thanks. Jill Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted March 9, 2003 Report Share Posted March 9, 2003 Jill, Rita had some great advice. Also, is he kicking the shoes off? What brand of shoes does he have, and do they have inserts? Check the files of this group and open the file by " castlady " for the shoes. She has 3 very useful pages that troubleshoot problems with the shoes and bar. I agree though that he needs to see his doctor. Good luck, hang in there! Bethany New to group Hi. My name is Jill, my son, Brodie, is 3 months old with bi-lateral clubfoot. He is supposed to be wearing the Dennis Brown Bar, well, he doesnt. I was wondering if anyone else here goes to The Nemours Childrens Clinic in Pensacola, Fl. More specifically to see Dr. Leah Pike. I am concerned something is not right with the bar. He has been casted since birth and had the tendon surgery already. But, he will not wear the shoes. I am looking to get some ideas on what to do, his feet are already turning back in, he has been out of his last cast for 3 weeks. Thanks. Jill Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted March 9, 2003 Report Share Posted March 9, 2003 Jill, Rita had some great advice. Also, is he kicking the shoes off? What brand of shoes does he have, and do they have inserts? Check the files of this group and open the file by " castlady " for the shoes. She has 3 very useful pages that troubleshoot problems with the shoes and bar. I agree though that he needs to see his doctor. Good luck, hang in there! Bethany New to group Hi. My name is Jill, my son, Brodie, is 3 months old with bi-lateral clubfoot. He is supposed to be wearing the Dennis Brown Bar, well, he doesnt. I was wondering if anyone else here goes to The Nemours Childrens Clinic in Pensacola, Fl. More specifically to see Dr. Leah Pike. I am concerned something is not right with the bar. He has been casted since birth and had the tendon surgery already. But, he will not wear the shoes. I am looking to get some ideas on what to do, his feet are already turning back in, he has been out of his last cast for 3 weeks. Thanks. Jill Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted March 9, 2003 Report Share Posted March 9, 2003 Hi. Yes, he does kick the shoes off, they do have inserts. He wears the Straight Last shoes, with an open toe. It is just so aggravating!- -- In nosurgery4clubfoot , " " <bhayes1@s...> wrote: > Jill, > Rita had some great advice. Also, is he kicking the shoes off? What brand of shoes does he have, and do they have inserts? Check the files of this group and open the file by " castlady " for the shoes. She has 3 very useful pages that troubleshoot problems with the shoes and bar. I agree though that he needs to see his doctor. Good luck, hang in there! > Bethany > New to group > > > Hi. My name is Jill, my son, Brodie, is 3 months old with bi- lateral > clubfoot. He is supposed to be wearing the Dennis Brown Bar, well, he > doesnt. I was wondering if anyone else here goes to The Nemours > Childrens Clinic in Pensacola, Fl. More specifically to see Dr. Leah > Pike. I am concerned something is not right with the bar. He has been > casted since birth and had the tendon surgery already. But, he will > not wear the shoes. I am looking to get some ideas on what to do, his > feet are already turning back in, he has been out of his last cast > for 3 weeks. Thanks. Jill > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted March 9, 2003 Report Share Posted March 9, 2003 Hi. Yes, he does kick the shoes off, they do have inserts. He wears the Straight Last shoes, with an open toe. It is just so aggravating!- -- In nosurgery4clubfoot , " " <bhayes1@s...> wrote: > Jill, > Rita had some great advice. Also, is he kicking the shoes off? What brand of shoes does he have, and do they have inserts? Check the files of this group and open the file by " castlady " for the shoes. She has 3 very useful pages that troubleshoot problems with the shoes and bar. I agree though that he needs to see his doctor. Good luck, hang in there! > Bethany > New to group > > > Hi. My name is Jill, my son, Brodie, is 3 months old with bi- lateral > clubfoot. He is supposed to be wearing the Dennis Brown Bar, well, he > doesnt. I was wondering if anyone else here goes to The Nemours > Childrens Clinic in Pensacola, Fl. More specifically to see Dr. Leah > Pike. I am concerned something is not right with the bar. He has been > casted since birth and had the tendon surgery already. But, he will > not wear the shoes. I am looking to get some ideas on what to do, his > feet are already turning back in, he has been out of his last cast > for 3 weeks. Thanks. Jill > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted March 9, 2003 Report Share Posted March 9, 2003 Hi. Yes, he does kick the shoes off, they do have inserts. He wears the Straight Last shoes, with an open toe. It is just so aggravating!- -- In nosurgery4clubfoot , " " <bhayes1@s...> wrote: > Jill, > Rita had some great advice. Also, is he kicking the shoes off? What brand of shoes does he have, and do they have inserts? Check the files of this group and open the file by " castlady " for the shoes. She has 3 very useful pages that troubleshoot problems with the shoes and bar. I agree though that he needs to see his doctor. Good luck, hang in there! > Bethany > New to group > > > Hi. My name is Jill, my son, Brodie, is 3 months old with bi- lateral > clubfoot. He is supposed to be wearing the Dennis Brown Bar, well, he > doesnt. I was wondering if anyone else here goes to The Nemours > Childrens Clinic in Pensacola, Fl. More specifically to see Dr. Leah > Pike. I am concerned something is not right with the bar. He has been > casted since birth and had the tendon surgery already. But, he will > not wear the shoes. I am looking to get some ideas on what to do, his > feet are already turning back in, he has been out of his last cast > for 3 weeks. Thanks. Jill > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted March 9, 2003 Report Share Posted March 9, 2003 Jill, What size shoes does Brodie have right now? Do his toes stick out from the fringed edge of the tongue? This may sound strange, but some kids have a more difficult time keeping the shoes on if the shoes are too small. I'm glad to hear that you're taking him in to see his doctor, but I thought I'd throw this suggestion out to you anyway. justbeachy271 wrote: > Hi. Yes, he does kick the shoes off, they do have inserts. He wears > the Straight Last shoes, with an open toe. It is just so aggravating!- > > -- In nosurgery4clubfoot , " " Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted March 13, 2003 Report Share Posted March 13, 2003 I just wondered where you are based, in the UK or US. >-- Original Message -- >To: nosurgery4clubfoot > >Date: Sun, 09 Mar 2003 02:41:00 -0000 >Subject: Re: New to group >Reply-To: nosurgery4clubfoot > > > > > > >Hi Jill, > >I posted to you on the parents place board but found you here and >thought I would post again! > >My son is also 3 months and got his DBB 3 weeks ago. It was > >painful for us (Matty is a LOUD baby!) but we finally got him wearing >the DBB. The nurses told me to take the bar off also and get him >used to the shoes. That was quite fast. Then we put the bar on >for >short periods of time and eventually he was ok with it. Then we >increased the time he wore the bar til now he is in it almost 24/7. > >We are having trouble with sore spots on the tops of his feet and >have to build up to 24 hours. > >Maybe you should call your dr about the regression. I would make >sure that he doesn't need another casting. > >Good luck! > >Jody and Matty > > > > > > > > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted March 13, 2003 Report Share Posted March 13, 2003 I just wondered where you are based, in the UK or US. >-- Original Message -- >To: nosurgery4clubfoot > >Date: Sun, 09 Mar 2003 02:41:00 -0000 >Subject: Re: New to group >Reply-To: nosurgery4clubfoot > > > > > > >Hi Jill, > >I posted to you on the parents place board but found you here and >thought I would post again! > >My son is also 3 months and got his DBB 3 weeks ago. It was > >painful for us (Matty is a LOUD baby!) but we finally got him wearing >the DBB. The nurses told me to take the bar off also and get him >used to the shoes. That was quite fast. Then we put the bar on >for >short periods of time and eventually he was ok with it. Then we >increased the time he wore the bar til now he is in it almost 24/7. > >We are having trouble with sore spots on the tops of his feet and >have to build up to 24 hours. > >Maybe you should call your dr about the regression. I would make >sure that he doesn't need another casting. > >Good luck! > >Jody and Matty > > > > > > > > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted March 13, 2003 Report Share Posted March 13, 2003 I just wondered where you are based, in the UK or US. >-- Original Message -- >To: nosurgery4clubfoot > >Date: Sun, 09 Mar 2003 02:41:00 -0000 >Subject: Re: New to group >Reply-To: nosurgery4clubfoot > > > > > > >Hi Jill, > >I posted to you on the parents place board but found you here and >thought I would post again! > >My son is also 3 months and got his DBB 3 weeks ago. It was > >painful for us (Matty is a LOUD baby!) but we finally got him wearing >the DBB. The nurses told me to take the bar off also and get him >used to the shoes. That was quite fast. Then we put the bar on >for >short periods of time and eventually he was ok with it. Then we >increased the time he wore the bar til now he is in it almost 24/7. > >We are having trouble with sore spots on the tops of his feet and >have to build up to 24 hours. > >Maybe you should call your dr about the regression. I would make >sure that he doesn't need another casting. > >Good luck! > >Jody and Matty > > > > > > > > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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