What is in-toeing?

Also known as: pigeon toe, intoeing.

In-toeing is a common condition among toddlers in which the toes point inward rather than straight ahead. In many cases, it does not cause any problems in toddlers and corrects itself as the child grows. This is known as a normal variant. Other cases of in-toeing may require medical attention. The three normal variants that cause intoeing are femoral anteversion, internal tibial torsion, and metatarsus adductus. Your doctor can diagnosis these with a four-part physical exam called a rotational profile.

What causes in-toeing?

In many cases, the problems that lead to in-toeing first occur in the uterus due to the baby’s position. A twisted femur, shinbone or feet are the common causes of in-toeing.

What are the symptoms of in-toeing?

In some cases, the condition causes no symptoms other than the physical anomaly of the toes being pointed inward as the child stands, walks or runs. Other children may be clumsy or fall frequently due to the condition.

What are in-toeing care options?

Most cases of in-toeing correct themselves over time as the child grows. In the rare instances where the symptoms persist into adolescence, surgery may be required to correct the problems with the feet and legs and straighten the toes.

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Reviewed by: Daniel K Ruggles, DO

This page was last updated on: 1/29/2019 3:21:13 PM