Metatarsus adductus is a structural deformity where the forefoot tends to curve inward toward the center of the body from the midtarsal joint forward. It’s a condition that is intrinsic to the foot only. An in-toe gait is a condition where the foot also tends to turn inward but can be caused by problems in the back, hip, leg, or foot. Both condition as especially common in infants. However, most infants will grow out of it without surgery.
Orthotics can be a non-surgical solution to correct for metatarsus adductus or for an in-toe gait issue. To help correct metatarsus adductus or an in-toe gait with an orthotic a flange can be added to the lateral aspect of the distal plantar surface to induce out-toe. In the case of children, a Heel Stabilizer Type D from Allied OSI Labs can be ordered for children under the age of 5. A Reverse Roberts can be ordered or patients between the ages of 6-10, and a Gait Plate Induce Out-Toe can be ordered for children over the age of 10.
These age limits are just guidelines that do not have to be strictly adhered to. For instance, a Heel Stabilizer Type D can be ordered for an 8 year old if more correction is desired. The order of correction is 1. Heel Stabilizer Type D (most control), 2. Reverse Roberts, 3. Gait Plate Induce Out-Toe (least control). Keep in mind as a patient gets older the less control they can tolerate. So if a Heel Stabilizer is desired for an older child, you might use polypropylene instead of a rigid material. Allied OSI Labs offers all of these products and materials for you to prescribe.
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