What is Metatarsus Adductus?
Metatarsus adductus is a common foot deformity characterized by a curved or C-shaped appearance of the foot, where the front part of the foot turns inward towards the midline of the body. This condition can affect infants, children, and adults, with varying degrees of severity.
Causes of Metatarsus Adductus
Metatarsus adductus can develop due to a combination of genetic, environmental, and developmental factors, including:
Genetic Predisposition: Some individuals may have a familial tendency towards metatarsus adductus, suggesting a genetic component to the condition.
Intrauterine Positioning: Fetal positioning in the womb can influence the development of metatarsus adductus. Factors such as breech presentation or crowding in utero may contribute to the abnormal foot alignment.
Muscle Imbalance: Imbalances in the muscles and ligaments surrounding the foot can lead to abnormal foot positioning. Weakness or tightness in specific muscle groups may contribute to the inward curvature of the foot.
Environmental Factors: External factors such as tight swaddling or positioning devices during infancy may exacerbate or contribute to the development of metatarsus adductus.
Symptoms of Metatarsus Adductus
Common symptoms associated with metatarsus adductus may include:
Curved or C-shaped appearance of the foot, with the forefoot turning inward towards the midline.
Difficulty fitting into shoes due to the abnormal foot shape.
Limited range of motion in the foot and ankle.
Walking abnormalities, such as toeing in or a pigeon-toed gait.
Discomfort or pain in the foot, particularly during weight-bearing activities.
Treatment Options for Metatarsus Adductus
Most cases of metatarsus adductus will resolve before one years of age, however if it continues or the deformity becomes more rigid, treatment to relieve symptoms or address the contributing factors may be utilised.
Treatment options include:
Position Management: In children less than one, parents should be aware of the sitting or sleeping positions of their child, particularly anything placing increased pressure on the outside border of the foot.
Stretching and Manipulation: Gentle stretching exercises and manual manipulation techniques performed by a healthcare professional can help improve foot flexibility and correct mild cases of metatarsus adductus.
Orthoses: Custom orthoses or shoe inserts may be prescribed to provide support and encourage proper foot alignment. Orthoses can help redistribute pressure on the foot and promote normal development.
Casting or Bracing: In some cases, casting or bracing may be recommended to gradually reposition the foot and correct the deformity. This approach is often employed in infants and young children to facilitate proper foot development.
Exercises: Exercises focused on strengthening the muscles surrounding the foot and ankle can help improve muscle balance and joint stability.
Footwear: Appropriate footwear such as those with a straight last (ie minimal shoe curvature) and that fit well, can be used to help relieve symptoms and potentially improve deformity.
Surgery: Surgery is very rarely indicated for metatarsus adductus and may only be used when there is gross deformity or significantly impacts quality of life.
Conclusion
Metatarsus adductus is a common foot deformity that can impact individuals of all ages. Early recognition and intervention are crucial for optimizing treatment outcomes and preventing long-term complications. If you or your child are experiencing symptoms of metatarsus adductus, it's essential to consult with a qualified healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation and personalized treatment plan. With proper management, individuals with metatarsus adductus can achieve improved foot alignment, function, and quality of life.
