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Metatarsus adductus also called pigeon toe, metatarsus varus, in-toe gait, intoeing or false clubfoot is a condition which causes the toes to point inward when walking.

Gait scanning technology

TOG gait scan system

Metatarsus Adductus (Varus)

Metatarsus adductus (or Metatarsus varus) is a common deformity of the foot generally noticed at birth, though subtle deformity can be overlooked and not picked up till later. It presents with the front part of the foot (forefoot) positioned inward in comparison with the rear of the foot, giving the foot a ‘kidney-shaped’ appearance. The rearfoot and ankle are usually in a normal position, unlike a clubfoot. The inside border of the foot appears concave with an exaggerated arch and there is often a wider space between the first and second toes.

Metatarsus adductus that is undiagnosed at birth can become more apparent later in life as an in-toed gait.

What causes Metatarsus Adductus?

A single cause remains unclear but genetic and environmental factors have been suggested.

These factors include:

Muscle imbalance and soft tissue contractions
Family history of metatarsus adductus
Position of baby in uterus
Sleeping position of baby
Stunted development of foot in utero (8-9wks)
Abnormal muscle insertions in the foot
Has been linked with developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH)

Presentation of Metatarsus Adductus

Metatarsus adductus presents with varying severity and may be flexible (able to be corrected by hand), semirigid (some movement available) or rigid (minimal movement present). Methods of treatment chosen will vary depending on the severity and rigidity of the condition.

Population affected by metatarsus adductus

The incidence of metatarsus adductus is approximately one in 1000 births. It affects boys and girls equally and there is some evidence that first born children are at a greater risk.

Metatarsus adductus Treatment Options

Chosen treatment options for metatarsus adductus will depend on several factors including the age of the child, severity, rigidity, compliance and expectation levels. Metatarsus adductus responds best to early conservative treatment and may resolve spontaneously without treatment in some children.

It is particularly crucial that treatment begins prior to the child commencing walking (ie before 12 months of age).

Treatment options include:

Manipulation and stretching (by parents)
Padded shoes
Changing sleeping position of child
Serial casting
Splints and braces
Surgical correction
Or a combination of the above treatments

The most well acknowledged treatment prior to 12 months of age is the use of plaster casts, changed periodically over a 1-3 month period to correct the deformity. Usually if treatment is left until after weight-bearing commences the likelihood of success drops considerably.