Foot issues

In Toe/Out Toe Gait

Brief Description

Abnormal position of feet while walking due to structural or rotational issues in the lower extremity. These conditions are commonly seen in toddlers and young children.

Symptom

In-toed gait is a condition marked by feet that point inwards (pigeon toed) vs out-toed gait is marked by feet that point outwards (duck walk).

Treatment

Assessment

Orthotic

Medical terminology: in-toe/out-toe gait

Abnormal toe position while walking, whether its in-toed or out-toed gait, are caused due to an over rotation (in-toed) or under rotation (out-toed) of the lower extremity not allowing the toes to point straight.

These gait conditions are most commonly seen in toddlers and young children due to their bodies ever changing positions throughout development. Naturally, babies are born with their hips externally rotated and knees “bowed”. As babies develop into young children, they experience internal rotation of the lower body creating straighter feet and knee positions. Due to the flexible nature of young children, they experience “over rotation” which creates the in-toed appearance while other children are “stuck” in the externally rotated position creating the out-toed appearance.

Most of these gait issues will resolve with normal development but if they don’t, it will be much harder to correct in adulthood due to the more rigid position/function of the lower body once development is complete.

There are 3 main reasons why in-toeing/out-toeing happen

  • Abnormal amount of rotation at the hip or knees 
  • Structural abnormality affecting amount of rotation at the hip or knees
  • Structural abnormality of the feet causing it to be pointing more inwards or outwards

How can you treat?

  • Serial casting – if caught early enough, weekly casts are used to help realign abnormal structures as their lower body develops
  • Bracing devices – device is used to hold child’s feet/legs in a certain position to promote proper structure
  • Orthotics – special feature known as a “gait-plate” may help reduce in/out-toeing
  • Physiotherapy – stretches and exercises that promote proper development of the lower body and proper gait
  • Time – majority of cases will grow out of most in/out-toed gait

Recommendation to prevent the issue:

  • Avoid “W” position when sitting: this common position for children increases internal rotation of the knees and hips which could lead to an in-toed gait.
  • Early detection – discuss with your family doctor/pediatrician if you notice something unusual. Don’t be afraid to ask to see a foot specialist or physiotherapist for a second opinion.
  • Physiotherapy – seeing a physiotherapist can be extremely helpful to guide you through some basic stretches and exercises that help promote proper lower body movement and function
We’ve got you covered!
The following treatments are available for your 
In Toe/Out Toe Gait
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