Facts About Pigeon Toes Parents Should Know
If your child’s feet point inward when they walk or run, you’re not alone, and you’re not late to the problem. Pigeon toes, or in-toeing, is one of the most common gait patterns we see in kids. At Desert Podiatric Medical Specialists, we meet parents every week who are worried about tripping, shoes wearing out unevenly, or classmates making comments. Take a breath. Most of the time, in-toeing is part of normal growth, and with a little guidance, you can feel confident about what to watch and when to act.
What Pigeon Toes Means
In-toeing simply describes the direction the feet point, and while it’s a common pediatric gait abnormality, it’s not a diagnosis itself. It shows up when the forefoot curves inward, the shin bone rotates inward, or the thigh bone has a twist that points the knees and feet slightly toward each other.
Many toddlers look more in-toed when they’re tired or moving fast, then straighten out as coordination and strength improve.
Common Causes of Pigeon Toes in Children
Most in-toeing comes from three growth patterns:
- A curved forefoot seen in infancy
- Inward twist of the shin that’s common in early walkers
- Femoral anteversion, which is an inward twist of the thigh bone that shows up later, often between ages 3 and 8.
Each tends to improve naturally as bones lengthen and muscles mature. And you don’t have to decide which one it is on your own. That’s what we assess during a visit.
What You’ll Notice Day to Day
You might see your child trip more when they sprint, sit in a W position on the floor, or wear down the inner edge of their shoes. Most kids don’t have pain from in-toeing, but fatigue after a long day of play is common. If your child avoids running, complains of pain, or seems to fall more than their peers, that’s a sign to check in.
Shoes, Activities, and Simple Home Tips
Supportive, flexible shoes with room for toes help kids push off straight without squeezing the forefoot. Also, barefoot time indoors on safe surfaces can strengthen small foot muscles and balance.
When Treatment for Pigeon Toes Is Needed
Most children don’t need braces or surgery. Orthotics can help with comfort if the forefoot is curved or the arch tires easily, and short courses of physical therapy can improve coordination and reduce tripping.
Surgery is reserved for rare, rigid cases that don’t improve and cause significant functional limits. If that ever becomes part of the conversation, we’ll map out timing and expectations, so you know exactly what comes next.
If you’re experiencing foot pain, discomfort, or changes in how you walk, come see the expert team at Desert Podiatric Medical Specialists. With locations in Tucson and Oro Valley areas of Pima County, Arizona, Bradley A. Whitaker, D.P.M., FACFAS, Peter C. Merrill, D.P.M., AACFAS, and Zeno Pfau, D.P.M., are here for you. Call us at (520) 575-0800 or contact us online!
