Second opinion - orthopaedic wants surgery first not Ponseti

Im feeling really confused and scared. Our local hospital said our baby needs extensive surgery to correct his clubfoot. But everything I've read online says Ponseti method should be tried first??

The surgeon is quite old school. He said casting "doesn't always work" and surgery gives better results. This goes against everything I've seen on STEPS.

Has anyone else been told surgery first? Should I push for a Ponseti referral?

PLEASE get a second opinion. Ponseti should ALWAYS be first line treatment. 95%+ success rate. The fact your orthopaedic wants surgery first is a massive red flag.

Contact STEPS charity (steps-charity.org.uk) - they can help you find a Ponseti specialist. We had a similar experience. Got referred to a Ponseti centre, 6 casts later my son's foot was perfect. No surgery needed.

This makes me so angry. In 2026 there is NO excuse for not offering Ponseti first. It's the gold standard worldwide.

I'm a physiotherapist and I've seen outcomes from both approaches. Ponseti-treated feet are more flexible, have better function, and avoid the scarring from early surgery.

Please push for a referral. Your GP can refer you to a specialist Ponseti clinic.

I was in EXACTLY this position 2 years ago. Old school surgeon wanted to operate on my newborn. I called STEPS and they got us a referral to the Royal London within 2 weeks. 5 casts, one small tenotomy, and now my daughter has a beautiful straight foot.

PLEASE don't let them operate without trying Ponseti first 😰💙

Run. Get a second opinion yesterday. The evidence for Ponseti is overwhelming.

Contact STEPS immediately, they have a helpline and can advise on nearest Ponseti centres. Sending strength 💙

just adding - my niece had surgery first (before Ponseti was common) and shes now 20 with a stiff painful foot and multiple scars. Ponseti babies I know are running around with flexible happy feet. The difference is massive.

get that second opinion!!!