Metatarsus Adductus

This condition is diagnosed by examining the baby’s feet.

Metatarsus Adductus will usually improve within a couple of months as the baby has more space to move and stretch their feet.  Some simple exercises and activities can improve the foot position. 

It is advised to avoid tight baby grows, tights, socks or shoes which could restrict the movement of the foot and ankle.

In rare cases, further treatment may be indicated, such as serial casting.

Perform these simple exercises on your baby’s foot when your baby is relaxed.

Carry out each exercise for 10-30 seconds, as tolerated. They should never be painful. They can be completed regularly throughout the day, for example every time baby has a nappy change.

Exercises

• Hold over the top of the foot using your fingers and thumb with the knee bent.
• Move the foot round to the middle so it lines up with the rest of the leg.
• Using your other hand, massage along the inner border of the foot.

• Tickle the outside edge of your baby’s foot, from their little toe to their heel bone, around the ankle and up the outer part of the lower leg
• This will help the baby to activate their muscles to turn their foot outwards

Your baby will be referred for a physiotherapy appointment to review the progress of the feet.

It is routine to be referred for a hip ultrasound scan. Please speak to your Health Visitor if you require any more information.