Metatarsus Adductus Jon writes:
Ok I’m 18 and I have metatarsus adductus. I was treated for it when I was younger but I did not do anything. It does not really affect my athletic ability too much. Sometimes I feel like I’m off balance. Other then that, I was just wondering if there’s a cure for it since it’s noticeable.
Dr. Nirenberg replies:
Metatarsus adductus (met adductus) is a deformity where the forefoot turns inward, and you are born with this deformity. It is not common. A podiatrist should be able to spot this problem fairly easily.
The best time to treat metatarsus adductus is early – when the child is an infant. At birth our bones are pliable and the podiatrist will treat this deformity by placing the child’s foot in a cast that gently nudges the foot back into its correct position.
If an adult has pain or problems associated with metatarsus adductus (med adductus), most podiatrists would recommend trying a special arch support called an orthotic. Orthotics help balance the foot by placing it in a more normal position.
If an orthotic does not work, then one would need surgery to “fix” the problem. The good news is that most adults with metatarsus adductus do not have a lot of problems and surgery is rarely necessary.
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