Metatarsus Adductus: Symptoms, Causes, Treatment

What are the symptoms of metatarsus adductus?

Metatarsus adductus is a congenital deformity of the foot that affects the metatarsal bones. The symptoms of metatarsus adductus can vary in severity, but common symptoms include:

1. Inward curvature: The metatarsal bones may curve inward, causing the toes to be pointed inward towards the midline of the body.
2. Toe rotation: The toes may be rotated inward, which can cause the toes to touch or overlap each other.
3. Pain or discomfort: Patients with metatarsus adductus may experience pain or discomfort in the foot, ankle, or leg due to the abnormal alignment of the metatarsal bones.
4. Limited mobility: The foot may have limited mobility, making it difficult to walk or move the foot normally.
5. Difficulty wearing shoes: Metatarsus adductus can make it difficult to find shoes that fit properly, as the foot shape is altered.
6. Foot fatigue: The abnormal alignment of the metatarsal bones can lead to fatigue in the foot, ankle, and leg muscles.
7. Walking abnormalities: Patients with metatarsus adductus may have an abnormal gait or walking pattern due to the altered alignment of the foot.
8. Toe numbness or tingling: Numbness or tingling sensations in the toes can occur due to compression of nerves caused by the inward curvature of the metatarsal bones.

It’s important to note that metatarsus adductus can be a mild or severe condition, and some individuals may not experience any symptoms at all. If you suspect that you or your child has metatarsus adductus, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and treatment.

What are the causes of metatarsus adductus?

Metatarsus adductus is a congenital deformity of the foot that is present at birth. The exact cause of metatarsus adductus is not fully understood, but it is believed to be related to several factors during fetal development. Some possible causes of metatarsus adductus include:

1. Genetic predisposition: Metatarsus adductus can run in families, suggesting that there may be a genetic component to the condition.
2. Fetal position: The way the fetus is positioned in the womb during pregnancy may contribute to the development of metatarsus adductus.
3. Intrauterine constraint: Tight space in the womb or compression from other fetal structures may also play a role in the development of metatarsus adductus.
4. Abnormal embryonic development: Abnormalities in the development of the foot and ankle during embryogenesis may also contribute to the development of metatarsus adductus.
5. Prematurity: Babies born prematurely may be more likely to develop metatarsus adductus due to the reduced amount of time they have in the womb for proper foot development.
6. Multiple gestations: Babies born as part of multiple gestations (twins, triplets, etc.) may be more likely to develop metatarsus adductus due to reduced space and limited mobility in the womb.
7. Maternal factors: Maternal factors such as diabetes, hypertension, or other medical conditions may also contribute to the development of metatarsus adductus.

It’s important to note that metatarsus adductus can occur alone or in combination with other foot or ankle deformities. If you suspect that your child has metatarsus adductus, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and treatment.

How is the diagnosis of metatarsus adductus made?

The diagnosis of metatarsus adductus is typically made through a combination of physical examination, medical history, and imaging studies. Here are the steps involved in making a diagnosis of metatarsus adductus:

1. Physical examination: A thorough physical examination of the foot and ankle is performed to assess the alignment of the metatarsal bones and the presence of any other deformities.
2. Medical history: The patient’s medical history is taken to determine if there are any underlying conditions that may be contributing to the deformity.
3. Radiographs: X-rays of the foot and ankle are taken to visualize the alignment of the metatarsal bones and to rule out other conditions that may be causing the deformity.
4. Computerized tomography (CT) scan: A CT scan may be ordered if the X-rays do not provide enough information or if there is a suspicion of a more complex deformity.
5. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI): An MRI may be ordered if the CT scan does not provide enough information or if there is a suspicion of a soft tissue injury or inflammation.
6. Physical therapy evaluation: A physical therapist may evaluate the patient’s gait, strength, and flexibility to assess the severity of the deformity and plan for treatment.

The diagnosis of metatarsus adductus is based on the following criteria:

• The presence of an inward curvature of the metatarsal bones
• The presence of an abnormal alignment of the toes
• The presence of pain or discomfort in the foot or ankle
• The presence of limited mobility or stiffness in the foot or ankle

Once the diagnosis is made, further testing may be necessary to determine the severity of the deformity and plan for treatment.

What is the treatment for metatarsus adductus?

The treatment for metatarsus adductus depends on the severity of the condition and the age of the patient. Here are some common treatment options:

1. Orthotics: Orthotics, such as shoe inserts or arch supports, can help to correct the alignment of the metatarsal bones and reduce pain and discomfort.
2. Physical therapy: Physical therapy exercises can help to improve strength, flexibility, and mobility in the foot and ankle, which can help to alleviate symptoms.
3. Stretching and exercises: Stretching exercises can help to improve flexibility and reduce stiffness in the foot and ankle.
4. Splints: Splints can be used to hold the foot and ankle in a corrected position, helping to alleviate symptoms.
5. Surgery: In severe cases of metatarsus adductus, surgery may be necessary to correct the deformity. This may involve cutting and realigning the bones, or attaching tendons and ligaments to reposition the foot.
6. Casting: Casting may be used to immobilize the foot and ankle, allowing the bones to heal in a corrected position.
7. Night splints: Night splints can be worn at night to help stretch and align the foot while sleeping.

It’s important to note that treatment for metatarsus adductus is usually more effective when started early in life, as it can help to prevent complications and improve long-term outcomes.

In addition to these treatments, other therapies such as:

• Massage
• Acupuncture
• Chiropractic care
• Podiatry care

May also be beneficial in managing symptoms and improving overall well-being.

It’s always best to consult with a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan tailored to your specific case.