Pediatric Foot Problems: In-Toeing, Out-Toeing & Overlapping Toes
Children’s feet are still growing, and problems that are caught early are usually easier to correct. At Foot Centers of Maryland, our podiatrists evaluate and treat pediatric foot problems such as in-toeing, out-toeing, and overlapping toes for families in Baltimore, Glen Burnie, Timonium, and Reisterstown, MD, helping children walk, run, and play comfortably.
Request an AppointmentIn-Toeing: The Most Common Pediatric Foot Problem
The most common foot problem we see in children is in-toeing, or walking with the feet turned inward. Oftentimes this results from a lack of external rotation at the hip (femur). The result is an in-toe gait and a flattening of the arch. In-toeing can also come from a curve in the foot itself (metatarsus adductus) or a twist in the shin bone (tibial torsion).
Out-Toeing
Out-toeing is when the feet point outward during walking. It can be related to the position of the hips, legs, or feet and is sometimes associated with flat feet. Many cases are mild, but persistent out-toeing should be evaluated.
Overlapping Toes
Overlapping toes occur when one toe rests on top of a neighboring toe, most often the fifth toe. They may be present at birth or develop over time and can cause irritation, corns, and difficulty fitting shoes.
Will My Child Grow Out of It?
Many deformities seen in infants are the result of their position in the womb, and children often outgrow these as they develop. However, if the retained position is significant or a true structural deformity is present, the problem will not resolve on its own. The earlier treatment begins, the more successful the outcome tends to be.
Signs Your Child Should See a Podiatrist
- Frequent tripping or falling
- Feet that turn in or out significantly or only on one side
- Complaints of foot, leg, or knee pain
- Uneven shoe wear or difficulty keeping up with peers
- Toes that overlap and cause irritation
Treatment Options for Children
- Observation: Monitoring mild cases that are likely to improve with growth.
- Stretching and Exercises: Improving flexibility and strength.
- Supportive Shoes and Custom Orthotics: Improving alignment and supporting the arch.
- Splinting or Bracing: Gently guiding the foot or toes into better position.
- Surgery: Rarely needed and reserved for significant structural deformities.
Active kids with heel pain or sports injuries can also benefit from our sports medicine care.
Pediatric Foot Problem FAQs
Is in-toeing normal in children?
In-toeing is very common in young children and is often caused by hip rotation, a curved foot, or a twisted shin bone. Many children outgrow it, but significant cases should be evaluated.
Will my child outgrow in-toeing or out-toeing?
Many children do outgrow mild positional problems. If the deformity is significant or structural, it will not resolve on its own and needs treatment.
When should my child see a podiatrist?
Schedule a visit if your child trips frequently, complains of pain, has feet that turn in or out significantly, or has toes that overlap and cause irritation.
How are overlapping toes treated?
Mild cases may be managed with taping, splints, and proper shoes. Surgery is considered only if the overlap causes ongoing pain or problems.
Do children need orthotics?
Some children with flat feet, in-toeing, or pain benefit from orthotics to support their arches and improve alignment.
Why is early treatment important?
Children’s bones are still developing, so treatment started early is typically more successful.
Does in-toeing cause problems later in life?
Most mild cases do not, but untreated structural problems can contribute to flat feet, pain, and walking difficulties.
Help Your Child Walk and Play Comfortably
Have your child’s feet checked by our podiatrists. Call (410) 844-4700 - Overlea Office, Mercy Office, Reisterstown Office, Glen Burnie Office, or Lutherville Office or request an appointment at our Overlea, Mercy, Glen Burnie, Lutherville, or Reisterstown office.