Metatarsus Adductus is a common deformity affecting the feet of newborns and young children. In this condition, the feet curve inwards rather than straight ahead and occasionally the toes spread widely.
The cause of metatarsus adductus is not always clear, however it is thought to be related to the way the child is ‘tucked up’ in the womb. The feet will usually straighten within a year or two of birth, and the deformity usually has little effect on walking or crawling.
Some forms of metatarsus adductus are rigid or fixed in place rather than flexible. When this is the case, your child may require leg casts, splints or braces to straighten the feet.
Also known as:
- Metatarsus Varus – this term usually refers to the fixed form of metatarsus adductus that requires treatment
