Usefulness and accessibility of information on the treatment of children with congenital clubfoot: results of a survey of parents

BACKGROUND: Treatment of congenital clubfoot remains controversial from both specialists and parents regarding the details of its practical application, individual effectiveness, and follow-up, rehabilitation treatment, prevention, and treatment of relapses. The assessment of parental attitudes using an online survey optimizes doctor–patient interaction. Information available to parents regarding the diagnosis and treatment of children with congenital clubfoot is lacking. AIM: This study aimed to assess the usefulness and accessibility of information for parents about the treatment of children with congenital clubfoot. MATERIALS AND METHODS: To assess the usefulness and accessibility of information about the treatment of congenital clubfoot, a survey of the patients’ parents was conducted using an electronic fillable form proposed for anonymous completion in a thematic group dedicated to the treatment of congenital clubfoot on the social network “VKontakte”; the study included 5500 participants at the time of the survey (2 weeks), with 328 responses received. RESULTS: Most parents noted a lack of information regarding clubfoot treatment before it actually began. The preferred source of information was Internet resources (i.e., websites of medical institutions and social networks). Achilles tenotomy and wearing braces raised the most questions, requiring additional information from both doctors and alternative sources. The possibility of errors and complications in wearing braces caused the greatest concern among parents, as well as possible relapses and the correctness of prescriptions during the rehabilitation treatment. Online parent communities and physician blogs are considered significant information sources. Most parents prefer to expand information about congenital clubfoot on the Internet, including social networks and popular resources. CONCLUSIONS: Analysis of the results of an anonymous survey of parents of children with congenital clubfoot showed a significant demand for high-quality, accessible information regarding the diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation of children with congenital clubfoot. Significant interest in the information provided by social media and other Internet resources determines the need for competent representatives of the professional community to participate in this process.