My Child is Pigeon-toed what should I do?
“Pigeon-toed” or Intoeing is one of the most common Paediatric concerns Pidgeon Toeing that parents have that we see as Podiatrists.
Parents are often worried that their child looks a bit funny when walking or be a bit more clumbsy than their peers.
Even though your child may look a little different when walking compared to others, it is what their normal is at this stage of their life.
In this blog I will explain some of the causes of intoeing and what as a Podiatrist we can do to help.
It can be really concerning to see your child not walking like other children.
Why is my Child Intoeing?
Intoeing is common in children as they develop and grow into their bodies.
There are many factors that may cause intoeing, these include:
- Metatarsus adductus: curve or banana shape foot usually caused by position of your baby in the uterus
- Internal rotation of the tibia (lower leg bone): one of the most common causes of intoeing where the foot points inwards but the knee is pointing straight ahead when walking
- Femoral anteversion: rotation of the femur (upper leg bone) inwards which is usually caused by your child being a W sitter
- Tight hamstrings and inside leg muscles: common after a growth spurt
These are just a few causes that your child are intoeing, finding out the main cause is important and will guide your Podiatrist on the best way to manage it.
Intoeing is very common
How do I stop my Child Intoeing?
Management of intoeing is based on the cause of the intoeing which will be determined after a Podiatry assessment.
Management options include:
- Monitor and regular check ups: if your child has no pain and dosesnt have a severe change in their leg or foot bone shape they will generally “grow out” of intoeing
- Gentle stretching: inside structures of the foot
- Sitting behaviour changes: sitting crossed legged or on a pillow
- Shoe changes
- Exercises: strengthen muscles around the hips
- Gait plates
Who do I see about my Child Intoeing?
Podiatrists are specialists in the foot and lower limb mechanics in children.
Book Online with your Podiatrist who will take a full history and assessment of your child and prescribe you with the most appropriate management plan for your child.
Alex Taylor
Podiatrist at Complete Podiatry