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Feet turning in: should I worry?
A plain answer about what's typical for your child's age
In-toeing (pigeon toes) in children
In-toeing is when a child's feet point inwards as they walk. It's common, it can make young children trip more, and it usually improves on its own by about 8 to 10 years old. It's worth a check if it's getting worse, is on one side only, causes pain, or stops your child joining in.
In-toeing is when a child's feet point inwards as they walk. It's common, it can make young children trip more, and it usually improves on its own by about 8 to 10 years old.
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It's worth a check if it's getting worse, is on one side only, causes pain, or stops your child joining in.
How we can help at Burwood Podiatry
Most in-toeing needs no treatment, and our job is to tell you plainly whether your child's is typical.
- A check of hips, shins and feet to find where the turn comes from
- Clear reassurance and a plan for what to watch, often with a video check-in every six months
- Care for anything that's sore, such as shoe advice or a home strength plan, if in-toeing comes with pain or tiredness
- A letter to your GP if it's getting worse or on one side only, so they can refer to a children's orthopaedic team
What you can do at home
- Let your child play and be active as normal
- Don't try to correct how they walk or sit; it doesn't change in-toeing and can make them anxious
- Well-fitting shoes with a firm heel and a fastening
- Take a short video of them walking every six months to see the change
- Unsure whether to book? See the signs worth a check: when should a child see a podiatrist?
When to get it checked
- It's getting worse, not better
- It's on one side only
- Pain, a limp, or frequent falls beyond the toddler years
- It stops your child keeping up or joining in
- It's still obvious after about 8 to 10 years old
Where the turn comes from
Foot (metatarsus adductus): the front of the foot curves inwards. Most improve without treatment; a few babies need a brace or special shoes early on
Shin (tibial torsion): a twist in the shinbone, common in toddlers, usually gone by around school age
Thigh (femoral anteversion): an inward twist from the hip, which improves slowly, usually by about 9 to 10
A sudden limp, a painful or swollen joint, or fever? See your GP or get same-day care. Emergency, or a foot that suddenly turns cold, pale or blue? Call 000.
In-toeing questions
Should I worry if my child's feet turn in?
Usually not: in-toeing is common and usually improves on its own by about 8 to 10 years old. It's worth a check if it's getting worse, is on one side only, causes pain or falls, or stops your child keeping up.
Will my child grow out of in-toeing?
Usually, yes. Most in-toeing improves on its own by about 8 to 10 years old, and it doesn't usually affect sport or cause problems later in life.
Do special shoes or insoles correct in-toeing?
Not usually. Shoes and insoles don't change a twist in the bones. A brace or special shoes are only used early on for a severe curve in the foot.
Should I stop my child sitting in a W position?
Changing how a child sits or walks doesn't change in-toeing and can cause stress. If sitting that way comes with pain or stiffness, mention it at the appointment.
How much is an appointment for my child?
A 30-minute appointment is $112 with Jasem, or $162 with Jonathan ($179 on Saturdays). No referral needed. If your child has a chronic condition and a GP care plan, Medicare pays $63.40 back per eligible visit. Fees and rebates
Where to next
Sources
Reviewed by Burwood Podiatry · November 2026