Article written by Madeline Frank.

In a significant leap forward for pediatric orthopedic care, UNFO Med Ltd. recently announced the introduction of an innovative corrective foot brace for newborns set to transform the treatment landscape for Metatarsus Adductus (MTA) and other related foot conditions. 

Developed under the visionary guidance of Dr. Izak Daizade, the Universal Neonatal Foot Orthotic (UNFO) system eliminates the need for traditional casting and surgical interventions, offering a gentle, non-invasive solution.

Metatarsus Adductus is a congenital foot condition characterized by the inward turning of the forefoot, affecting approximately 7% of newborns. This condition, if not addressed timely and effectively, can lead to significant long-term issues such as foot deformities, chronic discomfort, and difficulties in walking, which might result in frequent falls and a decreased quality of life as the child grows.

Traditionally, addressing MTA has involved the use of casts or surgical interventions—methods that can be not only uncomfortable for the tiny patients but also emotionally and logistically challenging for their families. These approaches often require multiple hospital visits, can be painful, and might come with the risk of complications or the need for further interventions.

The UNFO system, developed through extensive research and clinical practice, eliminates these concerns. The innovative device is a short foot orthotic, worn below the ankle, designed specifically to correct the misalignments associated with Metatarsus Adductus and similar conditions. Its development was guided by the principle of providing effective treatment without the pain, stress, or inconvenience associated with casts and surgery. The UNFO system is easy to use, allowing for normal foot development and movement while gently guiding the foot into the correct alignment.

Additionally, the UNFO brace’s discreet, sandal-like design is engineered to fit seamlessly into the daily lives of infants and their families. It is adjustable and tailored to accommodate the growth and unique shape of each child’s foot, promoting comfort alongside corrective treatment. This patient-centric design not only facilitates compliance but also supports the overall well-being of the infant, making the treatment process as stress-free as possible.

The introduction of the UNFO system represents a paradigm shift in the treatment of pediatric foot deformities, providing a beacon of hope for parents seeking a less invasive, more humane option for their children. It reflects a broader move towards innovative, compassionate healthcare solutions that prioritize the patient’s comfort and quality of life, setting a new standard in pediatric orthopedic care.

“In developing the UNFO brace, our mission was to create a solution that not only addresses the complex anatomical challenges of Metatarsus Adductus but does so in a way that respects the comfort and well-being of our smallest patients,” said Dr. Daizade in a recent interview. “After years of research and clinical trials, we are proud to introduce a device that represents a harmonious blend of therapeutic efficacy and compassionate care, ensuring that infants can overcome foot conditions with minimal discomfort and maximum support.”

Boasting a 95% success rate across 15,000 treated patients, the UNFO system’s effectiveness is underscored by its ease of use and the positive outcomes observed. Dr. Daizade’s dedication to enhancing pediatric orthopedic care is mirrored in the device’s development, aimed at alleviating the challenges faced by newborns with MTA.

Dr. John Herzenberg, a globally acclaimed orthopedic surgeon with extensive experience in pediatric orthopedics, praised the UNFO brace for its tolerability and effectiveness in correcting Metatarsus Adductus, especially in very young infants.

“The UNFO brace marks a significant advancement in our approach to treating Metatarsus Adductus in newborns,” said Dr. Herzenberg. “Its design and ease of use set a new standard for non-invasive treatment, offering a solution that is not only well-tolerated by our youngest patients but also leads to rapid and effective correction of this common foot condition. This innovation represents a leap forward in pediatric orthopedic care, providing a much-needed alternative to traditional and often distressing treatment methods.”

This endorsement from a professional listed among the top 1% in his field signifies the brace’s potential to replace older, less comfortable methods like serial casting.

With FDA approval and patented technology, the UNFO brace is now accessible to medical practitioners and orthopedic specialists across the United States, including prominent institutions like Mount Sinai Hospital in Baltimore, MD. This launch not only marks a new chapter in non-invasive pediatric orthopedic solutions but also underscores UNFO Med Ltd.’s commitment to advancing healthcare technologies for the youngest patients.