Toeing, also known as pigeon-toed gait, is a condition in which your toes curl inwards while you walk or run. Adults are less likely to suffer from this ailment than children, and most outgrow it by the time they reach their teens. Surgical intervention for in-toeing gait is only suggested in a small percentage of patients. Learn more about pigeon toe treatment.
- An in-toeing gait may have a variety of reasons
- In-toeing may be caused by one of three things
In the Metatarsus adductus, the foot is turned inwards; When a baby’s growth is constrained in the uterus, the front of their feet will curve inwards.
An in-toeing gait produced by a twist in the shinbone is known as tibial torsion, which is generally apparent by age 2. Anterior femoral anteversion is more common in females than males in children older than three years of age.
There is no discomfort or increased risk of arthritis with an in-toeing gait. However, if your child’s in-toeing gait causes them discomfort, swelling, or ends in limping, you should bring them to a doctor for therapy.
How Do You Know If Your Child’s Gait Is Inappropriate?
Metatarsus adductus is a condition typically with apparent signs that may be seen at birth or within a short time following. One or both of your baby’s feet will turn inward while sleeping. You may not be aware that your kid has tibial torsion until they take their first steps and both feet bend inward.
On the other hand, femoral anteversion is characterized as the inward bend of your child’s foot and knee at the age of 5 or 6 and is typically present. It’s also possible that your child’s standing still makes it visible. Special shoes, braces, & workouts have been demonstrated not to influence a person’s ability to walk correctly.
What Are the Signs and Symptoms of a Pigeon-Toed Gait?
Consult a podiatrist if your kid has discomfort or aches or if they are clumsy and often fall because of a pigeon-toed stride. Treatments for in-toeing gait include custom-made insoles, athletic tape, and specialized workouts.
Your doctor and podiatrist will examine your child’s posture and stride to see whether they have a pigeon-toed gait. Additionally, they’ll do physical tests, such as lifting your child’s feet, feeling how the knees bend, and looking for evidence of hip twisting. An x-ray may be recommended by your podiatrist as well.
