Why Are My Baby’s Feet Turning In?

You’ve noticed your baby’s feet turning in, and now you’re wondering—should I be worried? Is this normal, or does it mean they’ll have trouble walking later on?

First, take a deep breath. Inward-turning feet are quite common in newborns, and in many cases, they resolve on their own or with simple exercises. Sometimes, it’s just a result of how your baby was positioned in the womb. Other times, it might be due to a condition that needs treatment, but even then, early intervention can make a big difference.

In this guide, you’ll learn the key reasons why a baby’s feet might turn in, how to tell the difference between normal newborn positioning and a condition that requires treatment, and what steps you can take to help.

Positional Talipes

Positional talipes is one of the most common reasons a newborn’s feet might turn inwards. This happens when a baby’s foot rests in a slightly twisted position due to being cramped in the womb. However, the key thing to know is that the foot remains flexible—you can gently move it into a normal position, and your baby can wiggle their toes and ankle freely.

How Is Positional Talipes Treated?

The good news? Positional talipes usually corrects itself within the first few months as your baby grows and moves more. However, gentle stretching and movement exercises can help speed up the process. A paediatric physiotherapist can show you simple exercises to encourage normal foot positioning.

Does It Affect Walking?

No, positional talipes doesn’t usually cause long-term issues. Since the bones are not affected, babies with positional talipes develop normal walking patterns as they grow.

If the inward turning doesn’t seem to be improving or if you’re unsure, it’s always a good idea to check with a healthcare professional for reassurance.

Congenital Talipes (Clubfoot)

Congenital talipes, commonly known as clubfoot, is different from positional talipes because it’s a structural condition rather than a temporary positioning issue. In this case, the baby’s foot is turned downwards and inwards, and importantly, it cannot be easily moved into a normal position. Babies with clubfoot also have limited movement in their ankle.

How Is Clubfoot Diagnosed?

In many cases, clubfoot is picked up during the 20-week pregnancy scan. However, if it wasn’t detected before birth, a specialist—such as a paediatric physiotherapist or orthopaedic doctor—can diagnose it based on the foot’s position and stiffness.

What Treatment Is Needed?

Unlike positional talipes, clubfoot won’t correct itself over time and requires treatment to ensure proper foot alignment. The Ponseti method is the most common and effective treatment. It involves:
✅ Gentle stretching and casting to gradually move the foot into the correct position.
✅ A minor procedure to release the tight Achilles tendon.
✅ Wearing special boots and braces to maintain the correction.

Will My Baby Be Able to Walk Normally?

Yes! With early treatment, babies with clubfoot go on to walk, run, and play just like any other child. However, without treatment, it can lead to walking difficulties later in life.

If you’re concerned about your baby’s foot position, it’s always best to seek professional advice early.

Metatarsus Adductus

Metatarsus adductus is another common reason a baby’s feet might turn in. Unlike talipes, where the whole foot is affected, metatarsus adductus mainly affects the front part of the foot, which curves inwards while the heel remains in a normal position.

How Can I Tell If My Baby Has Metatarsus Adductus?

A key sign is that the middle and front parts of the foot curve inwards, creating a C-shape when looking at both feet together. The flexibility of the foot varies—some cases are mild and flexible, while others are more rigid.

How Is It Treated?

📌 Mild cases often resolve on their own as your baby grows and starts to bear weight on their feet.
📌 Moderate cases may require gentle stretching exercises, which a paediatric physiotherapist can guide you through.
📌 Severe cases (where the foot is stiff and doesn’t straighten easily) may need special boots or, in rare cases, a referral to a specialist for further treatment.

Does It Affect Walking?

Most babies with metatarsus adductus develop normal walking patterns. However, if the inward curve is severe or doesn’t improve, early intervention can help prevent long-term issues.

If you’re unsure whether your baby’s foot position is normal, a paediatric physiotherapist can assess the severity and recommend the best course of action.

When to Seek Professional Advice

In many cases, inward-turning feet correct themselves over time, especially if the cause is positional talipes or a mild case of metatarsus adductus. However, there are times when it’s best to seek professional advice.

Signs You Should Get a Specialist Opinion

🔹 The foot feels stiff or rigid – If you can’t gently move your baby’s foot into a straight position, it could indicate a structural issue like clubfoot.
🔹 Your baby struggles to move their foot or ankle – If they can’t wiggle their toes or flex their ankle freely, it’s worth having it checked.
🔹 The foot position isn’t improving – If the inward turning hasn’t improved by around 6 months, a physiotherapist can assess whether treatment is needed.
🔹 One foot looks significantly different from the other – If one foot is more curved or appears smaller, it’s a good idea to get an expert opinion.
🔹 Your baby starts walking differently – If their inward-turning foot affects how they stand or walk, early intervention can help correct it.

Who Can Help?

👩‍⚕️ Paediatric Physiotherapist – Can assess your baby’s foot flexibility and recommend stretches or treatment.
🏥 Orthopaedic Specialist – If the condition is more severe, they can provide further treatment options like casting or bracing.

If you’re ever in doubt, it’s always best to have your baby’s feet checked early—most issues can be managed effectively if caught in time!