Intoning Gait

Some childrens feet turn in when they walk. It’s called intoeing or ‘pigeon toe’ and is common in young children. It’s one of the most common normal variants in children and is usually seen in both feet but may just be one.

Problems

👉 May trip more often at first but this soon resolves

👉Falling is not caused by intoeing but is part of the process of learning to walk.

👉 Intoeing will not affect your child’s ability to walk, run or jump.

👉 Your child will be just as good at sport and no more likely to develop back or hip problems than anyone else.

Causes

🦵Femoral anteversion - this is where the thigh bone turns inwards causing the whole leg to turn in, this is the most common cause of intoeing. It is most evident between the ages of 2-4 and will usually resolve spontaneously by the age of  10.

🦵Tibial Torsion - this occurs when the shin bone is twisted causing the foot to turn in even though the kneecaps point forwards. This will normally correct by age 4-5 as the bones grow, walking pattern matures and the knees straighten. Splints or special shoes are not necessary.

🦶Metatarsus Adductus -when the foot is turned in and often results from cramped space In the womb and is evident from birth. Most will resolve spontaneously but in severe cases when the foot is stiff, stretches or advice on footwear may be necessary.

🦵Tight hamstrings can cause intoeing. Following a growth spurt, tightness may cause intoeing to worsen.

A stretching programme provided by a physiotherapist after a full assessment may help improve this.

Sometime the muscles in the outside of the hip that turn the leg out can be slightly weaker resulting in the legs turning in- strengthening these muscles can help in some cases.

Help

💥Well-fitted shoes are recommended.

💥Encourage your child not to ‘W’ sit but to cross leg sit instead to stretch hips in the opposite direction.

💥Out-toed activities such as ballet , horse riding, or swimming breaststroke.

If you have any concerns about your child’s gait pattern head over to our contact page to get in touch!

Gaynor Robey Physiotherapy - Children’s Physiotherapy Gloucester