newborn orthopedic problemsOrthopedic problems in newborns are common with flat feet, in-toeing and bowlegs being common in the United States, but not all populations exhibit the same newborn orthopedic problems. Researchers from Mahidol University in Bangkok recently completed a study that published in the Journal of the Medical Association of Thailand reporting the most common orthopedic problems found in newborns across a population of more than 3,000.

Between June and September 2009, researchers examined 3,396 newborns for orthopedic anomalies. In addition to recording the presence of an anomaly, researchers also noted mother’s age, maternal pregnancy history, pregnancy complications, labor complications and method of delivery. Information on the newborn, including gender, APGAR, length and weight, were recorded.

Conclusion: In Thailand, the most prominent orthopedic problem noted in the newborn population was calcaneovalgus, a condition often referred to as flexible flatfoot. As many as 30% of infants across the world suffer a mild form of the condition. Metatarsus, another condition affecting newborn feet, was the second most common orthopedic anomaly. Both calcaneovalgus and metatarsus can be linked to fetal positioning in the womb.

Source: Chotigavanichaya C, Leurmsumran P, Eamsobhana P, Sanpakit S, Kaewpornsawan K. The incidence of common orthopaedic problems in newborn at Siriraj Hospital. J Med Assoc Thai. 2012 Sep;95 Suppl 9:S54-61.