Intoeing is when the feet turn inwards when walking and running rather than pointing straight ahead. It is often referred to as pigeon toes. Intoeing is very common in children and usually resolves without treatment as children grow up.
If your child continues with intoeing beyond 4 years old, they may need help from a podiatrist to correct their foot posture.
Causes
1. Metatarsus Adductus
This is when the metatarsal bones are turned toward the middle of the body. The foot has a curved look to it rather than being straight. Most of the time this is flexible deformity and can improve with minimal intervention. In some cases, your podiatrist may give you some stretches and in-shoe padding to assist.
2. Internal Tibial Torsion
This is when there is an inward twisting of the tibia (lower leg). This is quite common in young children and primary school kids. It usually corrects itself over time without any help, by around 8 years of age, with natural development.
3. Internal Femoral Torsion
This can mean it’s coming from the thigh. The bone in the thigh, the femur, has rotated inwards. This is also common, and usually corrects itself by about 10 years of age.
Treatment
A podiatrist will undertake a complete assessment of the lower limb to identify any developmental issues and also identify what’s causing the intoeing.
Often it’s simple and small interventions such as footwear, stretches and exercises are all that’s need. Sometimes orthotics may be helpful to correct the issue.