‘Why is my baby’s foot turning in?’
Metatarsus Adductus Treatment for Babies in Melbourne
Have you noticed that your baby's foot curves inwards or has a "C-shaped" appearance?
Metatarsus Adductus is a common foot condition in babies and young children. The good news is that most babies have a flexible foot that gradually straightens as they grow. Early assessment can help determine whether simple monitoring is all that's needed or whether treatment may be beneficial.
What is Metatarsus Adductus?
Metatarsus Adductus (MTA) is a common condition in infants and young children where the front part of the foot turns inwards. Instead of the outer edge of the foot being straight, it appears curved. This usually occurs because of your baby's position in the womb before birth.
Most cases are mild and the foot remains flexible, meaning it can be gently moved into a straighter position. MTA often improves naturally as your child grows, typically resolving by 2–3 years of age.
Some children with MTA may have intoeing when walking and running causing them to trip more often or appear slightly unsteady when learning to walk, but this usually improves over time.
Signs your child may have Metatarsus Adductus
You may notice:
One or both feet curve inwards
The outer edge of the foot appears curved rather than straight
The front of the foot points inward while the heel remains in a normal position
Your child's feet turn in when they begin standing or walking
Your child appears to trip more often than other children of the same age
You have concerns about the appearance of your baby's feet
How can physiotherapy help?
Our experienced paediatric physiotherapists will assess your child’s foot to determine how flexible it is and how severe the curvature may be.
Based on this assessment your physiotherapist will recommend gentle stretches and play based activities to help correct your child’s foot shape and ensure they continue to meet their milestones.
Your physiotherapist will monitor your child’s progress over time to ensure the foot is improving and will refer to a specialist if further support is needed.
When should I seek help?
We recommend an assessment if:
Your baby's foot appears very stiff or cannot be gently straightened
The foot shape is becoming more noticeable over time
Your child is frequently tripping or having difficulty with walking
You're unsure whether your child's foot position is developing normally
Your GP, maternal child health nurse or paediatrician has recommended a physiotherapy assessment
Early assessment provides reassurance for families and helps ensure your child receives the most appropriate care if treatment is needed.
Will my child grow out of Metatarsus Adductus?
Many children with flexible Metatarsus Adductus improve naturally as they grow and begin walking. Regular monitoring helps ensure the foot continues to develop normally and allows us to identify children who may benefit from further treatment.
Is Metatarsus Adductus the same as clubfoot?
No. Although both conditions affect the feet, Metatarsus Adductus only affects the front part of the foot while the heel remains in a normal position. Clubfoot is a different condition that affects the entire foot and ankle and usually requires different treatment.