In a powerful testament to compassionate healthcare, the Paraplegic Centre Peshawar (PCP) has successfully treated over 5,000 children born with congenital clubfoot deformities since launching its specialised programme in 2018.
Speaking at a World Clubfoot Day event, PCP CEO Dr. Syed Mohammad Ilyas said the milestone reflects the unwavering dedication of the centre’s medical and technical teams. He described the PCP not just as a medical facility but as a symbol of humanitarian service and hope, committed to finding sustainable solutions to long-standing health challenges.
The programme, initiated with support from the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), was expanded in 2022 through a partnership with the global non-profit MiracleFeet. This collaboration helped raise the quality of care to international standards and supported the development of new treatment centres across the country.
Dr. Ilyas noted that the Ponseti Method—a highly effective, non-surgical treatment approach—is used in most cases to correct the deformity. Each child is assessed by a specialised team comprising pediatricians, orthopedic surgeons, physiotherapists, and trained clinical staff. Families also receive ongoing guidance and support throughout the process.
To improve accessibility, new clubfoot clinics are being established in Gilgit and Bannu, reducing the need for long-distance travel for families. Existing clinics under PCP’s supervision are already operating successfully in Peshawar, Abbottabad, Haripur, Swat, Swabi, Islamabad, and Azad Jammu and Kashmir.
Dr. Aamir Zaib, PCP’s Director of Rehabilitation, said that emotional and psychological support for families is just as vital as physical treatment. He highlighted that parent education, counselling, and consistent follow-ups are key pillars of the programme, helping ensure long-term success and well-being for both children and their caregivers.