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April 3, 2025Many of you may notice pigeon toes, or intoeing. It often becomes noticeable in childhood, but some adults experience it as well. In some cases it corrects naturally over time as the bones and muscles develop. But some other need medical treatment to fix it. Here, we are to tell you all about pigeon toes. Keep reading to learn more.
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ToggleWhat Are Pigeon Toes?
Pigeon toes, also known as intoeing, happen when your feet turn inward instead of pointing straight ahead. People of all ages can experience this disorder. The good news is that in most cases it goes away naturally and it doesn’t cause any pain. But if it doesn’t improve over time, it can lead to more complications, and you need to go to a pediatric podiatrist Scottsdale.
Symptoms of Pigeon Toes
The most common signs of pigeon toes include:
- Feet turn inward when standing or walking.
- Frequent tripping, stumbling, or clumsiness.
- Difficulty running, jumping, or balancing.
- Uneven wear on the soles of shoes.
- Awkward or unusual walking pattern.
- Pain in the feet, ankles, or legs.
- Stiffness or difficulty straightening the feet.
- Toe-walking.
- Hip or knee discomfort due to misalignment.
- Lower back strain from improper posture.
- Fatigue in the legs or feet after walking or standing.
How to Fix Pigeon Toes?
In many cases, pigeon toes improve over time. But if it lingers or causes problems, there are plenty of treatment options. Here, we tell you the most effective ones.
Surgery
Most kids don’t need surgery for this disorder. But in rare cases, a pediatric podiatrist Mesa recommend surgery when pigeon toes causes pain, walking becomes difficult, and the child has severe bone rotation. Let’s see the surgical procedures:
Tibial Osteotomy | The surgeon cuts and realigns the shinbone (tibia) to correct inward twisting. They may use plates, screws, or a cast may to hold the bone in place during healing.
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Femoral Derotation Osteotomy | This procedure adjusts the thigh bone (femur) to improve leg positioning. The bone is rotated into proper alignment and secured with surgical hardware. |
Braces for Pigeon Toes
The pediatric podiatrist Gilbert may recommend using braces as they reposition the feet to improve alignment. They apply controlled pressure to help train the muscles and bones to move correctly over time. If you want to improve balance and prevent long-term posture issues, braces can be a good choice for you.
Best Shoes for Pigeon Toe Correction
Wearing proper shoes is a good way to improve foot alignment. Your shoes support better walking patterns by reducing discomfort, improving stability, and encouraging proper foot positioning. When buying shoes, opt for those with:
- Firm heel support
- Arch support
- Wide toe box
- Flexible soles
- Straight or reverse last design
Exercises for Pigeon Toe
Doing exercises can help to strengthen leg muscles and improve foot positioning. Pediatric podiatrist Chandler recommends these simple moves:
Heel Walks | Walk on heels with toes lifted to strengthen the shin muscles. |
Toe Taps | Sit with legs straight and tap toes outward. |
Hip Rotations | Lie on the back and move knees side to side. |
Stretching | Stretch the calf and hip muscles to increase flexibility. |
What Causes pigeon toes?
The main causes of pigeon toes include:
- Metatarsus adductus, which makes the front of the foot curve inward.
- Tibial torsion, which twists the shinbone inward, and usually improves by age five.
- Femoral anteversion, which turns the thigh bone inward, is common in kids who sit in a “W” position.
- Genetics, which increase the chance of pigeon toes if a parent had it.
- Muscle imbalances, which weaken leg or hip muscles and affect foot alignment.
- Neuromuscular conditions like cerebral palsy, which can cause inward foot rotation.
- Posture habits like certain sitting or sleeping positions, which can make intoeing worse.
Pigeon Toe Treatment Near Me in Gilbert, Scottsdale, Chandler, Mesa & Phoenix, AZ
If you are looking for the best place for pigeon toes treatment, we can help you. Our clinics in Gilbert, Scottsdale, Chandler, Mesa, and Phoenix, AZ provide expert care to correct pigeon toes and improve mobility. All you need to do is make an online appointment for a free consultation.
Let’s Recap
In conclusion, pigeon toes are common and often improve with time. Yet, don’t forget that treatment can help prevent long-term issues. If you are dealing with discomfort due to pigeon toes, you need to visit the doctor right away. You don’t need to worry as there are many different treatment options for you, and you can manage this problem easily.
FAQs
Not always. Some cases are genetic or happen in the womb.
No, it’s a common condition that many kids outgrow. Some babies are born with it, but it’s not a defect.
Yes, but treatment takes longer. Physical therapy, orthotics, and surgery are options for adults with persistent pigeon toes.
Doctors usually do a physical exam. In some cases, X-rays help determine bone alignment.
Most cases improve on their own. If treatment is needed, options include physical therapy, special shoes, or braces.