Pigeon toe, also known as in-toeing, is a condition where a child’s feet turn inward while walking or running. This misalignment often appears when children begin to walk and is commonly seen at younger ages. The primary causes of pigeon toe include metatarsus adductus, where the front part of the foot curves inward, tibial torsion, which is a twist in the shin bone, and femoral anteversion, a condition where the thigh bone turns inward. These conditions can affect children during different stages of growth, particularly between the ages of one and four, as they develop their walking and coordination skills. In many cases, pigeon toe resolves on its own as children grow and their bones and muscles strengthen. If your child has this condition, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a chiropodist who can effectively monitor their foot health.

If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, please consult with Emily Yu, B.Sc from Uptown Foot Care Clinic. Our specialist will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment. 

Common Causes of Foot Pain in Children

While children can experience many of the same foot problems as adults do, some foot problems may be more common during childhood. 

Causes of foot pain in children can include:

• Deformities that are present from birth, such as flat feet or clubfoot

• Sever’s disease, which is an inflammation of the growth plate in the heel bone

• Various sports injuries, such as sprains and fractures 

• Ingrown toenails

• Athlete’s foot

• Plantar warts

Prevention

It is important to look after the health of children’s feet in order to prevent future problems from arising. Keep your child’s feet clean and dry, trim their toenails regularly, ensure their shoes fit properly, and keep a watchful eye on any symptoms of foot pain, such as limping. If you notice any symptoms or if your child complains of foot pain, a chiropodist can help. 

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.