As children grow and develop, parents often observe unique aspects of their gait, such as in-toeing or out-toeing. In many cases, these conditions will resolve on their own with time and aren’t an immediate cause for concern. However, instances of in-toeing and out-toeing that don’t appear to improve as your child grows may be a sign of underlying foot or ankle problems that could require treatment.
In this guide, our experienced podiatrists help you understand when it might be necessary to bring your child in for an evaluation to ensure optimal treatment and gait development.
What Is In-Toeing?
In-toeing, also known as pigeon-toeing, refers to a condition where a child’s feet point inward instead of straight ahead when walking or running. In-toeing in toddlers and young children often occurs due to slight twists in the shin or thigh bones or slightly curved feet that make the toes point inward. In many cases, these slight twists or curves will resolve on their own as your child continues to mature and develop.
Some of the most common signs of in-toeing include:
- Feet pointing inward while walking.
- Tripping or stumbling frequently.
- Difficulty keeping up with peers during physical activities.
What Is Out-Toeing?
Out-toeing, on the other hand, is a condition that occurs when a child’s feet point outward instead of straight ahead when walking or running. Some of the most frequently seen causes of out-toeing in children and teens include slight outward twists in the shin or thigh bones, rotated hips and flat feet.
Some of the most common signs of out-toeing include:
- Feet pointing outward during movement.
- Waddling gait pattern.
- Uneven wear on shoes.
When to See a Specialist for Gait Concerns
While in-toeing and out-toeing often resolve on their own as children grow, there are certain instances when our podiatrists would recommend bringing your child in for a consultation with a specialist. If your child is experiencing persistent pain or discomfort, difficulty with daily activities or significant tripping or falling due to gait abnormalities, we recommend seeking a specialist’s opinion and treatment suggestions.
Treatment Options for In-Toeing and Out-Toeing
Our treatment recommendations for your child’s in-toeing or out-toeing will depend on his or her specific needs. In many cases, close monitoring of gait development, physical therapy exercises or special orthotic shoes or insoles can correct these issues.
Rarely, surgical treatment options may be necessary to correct underlying musculoskeletal concerns that may be causing pain or discomfort. In the vast majority of cases, however, non-surgical interventions can effectively treat symptoms associated with in-toeing and out-toeing.
By understanding the signs and symptoms of in-toeing and out-toeing and recognizing when to seek a professional evaluation, parents can ensure their child receives appropriate care and support for healthy gait development.
Consulting with one of our experienced podiatrists allows for personalized assessment and tailored interventions to address gait concerns effectively. Please call our Gaithersburg office at 301-948-2995 or contact us online to set up a consultation to discuss your child’s gait concerns with one of our skilled foot and ankle specialists.
