How In-Toeing and Out-Toeing Impact Your Child’s Athletic Performance
At Knight Foot and Ankle, In-toeing (feet pointing inward) and out-toeing (feet pointing outward) are common gait conditions we see that can affect athletic performance and your child’s biomechanical development at large. While these conditions are often harmless to your health, they can influence how athletes move and leave them more vulnerable to injury.
In this article, we’ll go over their implications and the help that’s available.
Pediatric Implications
The most common group that these conditions affect is children, as they are still developing into their natural walking patterns:
In-toeing: Excessive in-toeing can lead to increased stress on the lower limbs, potentially causing injuries like shin splints or ankle sprains. The walking pattern is typically self-corrected as your child develops.
Out-toeing: Opposite of pigeon toeing, this is when your child’s feet flare slightly outward (duck foot). Children who out-toe may experience occasional pain, lack of coordination, and difficulty wearing shoes. The problem usually resolves by the age of 10.
Impact on Athletic Performance
Out-toeing: Athletes with out-toeing may have difficulty generating power and speed, as their running mechanics and force distribution are less efficient. They may also be prone to hip and knee injuries. This can affect their performance in sports requiring agility and precision, like gymnastics or football.
In-toeing: While it may seem counterintuitive, mild in-toeing in young athletes can sometimes offer advantages in sports requiring quick cuts and changes in direction, such as soccer or hockey. In fact, it’s known that many world-class sprinters have a slight pigeon toe. However, excessive in-toeing can lead to increased pressure on the feet, ankles, and knees, thereby increasing the risk of injuries.
Seeking Professional Help
The ideal foot alignment for an athlete depends on their specific sport and body mechanics. If you have concerns about your child's walking or its impact on their athletic performance, consult with a podiatrist. They can assess the underlying cause, conduct a gait analysis, and recommend appropriate interventions, such as physical therapy or custom orthotics.
Get in touch with Chad Knight, DPM at Knight Foot & Ankle in Edmond, OK, to schedule an appointment. You can call us at (405) 513-0385 or click here to schedule your visit online!
