What To Know About the Intoe

intoeing treatment brooklyn pediatric podiatrist

When small children learn to walk, it can be very fun to watch. At first, they are a little unsure on their feet. They wobble and totter along as they explore their new talent. Next, they get a little bit braver and start to walk and run around. Their excitement is almost tangible. Their little gait is adorable and you are probably smitten. Not all children have the same gait though. Some children have a slightly different gait. When their legs are turned inward and their feet are pointing at each other, this is a condition known as intoeing and is common in many young children.

At birth, some children are born with their legs turned inwards. This is often due to the way the bones and joints are developed in utero. If your infant is born with legs that are turned in, you should consult with a podiatrist immediately to assess the situation and treat the condition early with casting, if necessary.

Sometimes intoeing does not begin until later on in a child’s life. At the age of two, this is usually caused by the twisting of the shin bone. Between the ages of three to ten, it is normally due to a twisted femur bone. This is commonly seen as a genetic trait in families.

Treatment For Intoeing

  • Intoeing does not usually need treatment if found in infants under 6 months of age. This is because, over time, the condition fixes itself and goes away. Unfortunately, there are some cases where a child does not grow out of their intoeing. If this is the case, then certain corrective measures may be taken to fix it. The first option is the use of casting. This immobilizes the legs in the proper position to allow them to heal and straighten out naturally.

  • The other option is to undergo surgery. While surgery is necessary for some severe cases, not all cases require surgery to be fixed. It is important to consult with a podiatrist before making a decision to undergo surgery for intoeing.

Intoeing is a condition that can be found in young children or adults. If you believe that you are intoeing and would like some help correcting your gait, contact Dyker Park Footcare, PLLC located in Brooklyn, NY. Our Podiatrists specialize in children’s foot conditions and can help get your child back to the correct position. Call (718) 745-6220 or request an appointment online today.

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