Intoeing is a foot condition where a person’s feet are turned inward instead of pointing straight ahead. It is commonly referred to as “pigeon-toed,” and the vast majority of cases occur in children. The term intoeing is generally used to describe a walking pattern by a toddler or developing child, so when we use the word below, we’re using it in reference to a child’s condition. If you have questions about intoeing and the treatment options available, contact foot and ankle surgeon, Dr. Lance Silverman today!
Intoeing is usually first observed by a parent as they watch their child learn to walk. A number of children grow out of the condition as they get older and their bones and muscles develop, but it is something that should be monitored. Intoeing is commonly caused by:
- Metatarsus adductus (the foot turns inward)
- Tibial torsion (the shinbone turns inward)
- Femoral anteversion (the thighbone turns inward)
As long as intoeing is not becoming more pronounced or causing pain, it will likely correct itself without bracing or special treatment. However, if pain is present or intoeing gets more pronounced, speak with a foot and ankle specialist.
Types Of Intoeing
Here’s a little more information about the types of intoeing:
- Metatarsus Adductus – This occurs when the child’s feet bend inward from the middle part of the foot to the toes. Severe cases may resemble a clubfoot deformity. It is most common in infants and usually resolves over the first 4-6 months of life. Babies between 6-9 months with a more severe deformity may need a cast or special shoes to ensure the bone develops as it should.
- Tibial Torsion – This type of intoeing occurs when the child’s lower leg twists inward. This is usually caused by the child’s positioning in the womb, but gradually goes away after birth. Tibial torsion almost always improves without treatment before the child reaches school age. Splints and special shoes are generally not helpful, so if it doesn’t correct on its own, surgery may be needed to reset the bone on children aged 8-10 years old with a severe case of intoeing.
- Femoral Anteversion – This occurs when the child’s thighbone (femur) turns inward and causes the intoeing. It is most common in kids at age 5 or 6. Kids with this condition often sit in a “W” position, with their knees bent and their legs flared out behind them. Again, this usually corrects itself as the child grows, and braces or other conservative care options aren’t very effective. Surgery would be performed on kids who are at least nine years old and whose deformity is causing walking issues.
Atlanta Toe Doctor
If you believe your child is dealing with a severe case of intoeing, consider reaching out to a specialist like Dr. Silverman. If it’s a mild case, keep an eye on it and bring it up to your pediatrician. For more information, reach out to Lance Silverman, MD today.