“Sickled feet” refers to a foot position where the front part turns inward. Medically, this condition is often known as metatarsus adductus. It is a common foot shape in infants, generally benign, and often resolves without specific intervention.
Understanding Sickled Feet
Sickled feet are characterized by an inward curvature of the forefoot, creating a C-shaped appearance. The toes and front of the foot point towards the body’s midline, while the heel and ankle remain in typical alignment. The condition can range from flexible, easily straightened by hand, to more rigid, where manual correction is difficult. It is distinct from clubfoot, a more complex deformity where the entire foot, including the ankle, is turned inward and often downward.
Common Causes and Development
The most frequent reason for sickled feet is the baby’s position within the uterus during pregnancy. This intrauterine compression can mold the developing foot inward. Factors like breech presentation (when the baby’s bottom is pointed down) or insufficient amniotic fluid can increase this molding effect. While the specific cause is often unknown, a family history may suggest a genetic predisposition. Many cases resolve spontaneously as the child grows and begins to use their feet.
When to Consult a Professional
Consult a healthcare professional if the foot appears rigid and cannot be gently straightened manually. Concerns also arise if there is noticeable asymmetry between the two feet or if the inward curvature worsens over time. If a child experiences pain, difficulty with activities like walking or crawling, or if persistent in-toeing affects their mobility, medical evaluation is warranted. Healthcare providers may also assess for associated conditions, such as developmental dysplasia of the hip, as infants with metatarsus adductus may have an increased risk for this hip joint issue.
Management Approaches
For many infants with sickled feet, particularly those with flexible cases, direct intervention is often not necessary as the condition frequently resolves on its own. Parents might be instructed on gentle stretching exercises, known as passive manipulation, to help straighten the foot. For more rigid or persistent cases not responding to observation and stretching, serial casting may be used, involving a series of casts to gradually reposition the foot over several weeks. Specialized footwear or orthotics are less commonly used, typically reserved for specific situations or as a follow-up to casting. Surgical intervention is rarely needed, considered only for severe, unyielding cases in older children unresponsive to other management strategies.