Around five in every 1, 000 babies in Fiji have a clubfoot.

The Health Ministry reveals that an estimated 200 babies require treatment per year.

Therefore physiotherapist and Medical Officers around the country are undergoing a formal Ponseti Clubfoot Course to upgrade their knowledge on providing treatment of abnormal foot for babies.

Clubfoot deformity is a condition where the foot is bent inwards and this is treated by a serial casting of the foot for about six to eight weeks to correct the deformity which is known as Ponseti Cast Treatment.

A team of medical professionals from the Australian Orthopedic Association is in Fiji to teach participants on the early management of clubfoot.

Team Leader Professor Peter Cundy says babies born with this deformity need prompt treatment in the first few weeks of life to prevent lifelong disability.

Cundy says Ponseti cast treatment has been shown to be better than surgery and is safer, cheaper and better for a lifelong improved outcome for children born with clubfeet.

He says not only is the disability reduced, but they also become contributors to the community and are employable.

Cundy adds that it is essential that the method is taught and practiced with precision, skill, and care – hence the importance of such courses.

Course facilitator Dr. Pauliasi Bouleka revealed that the course is very beneficial to the participants as they get the firsthand knowledge which will assist them in the treatment of such cases.