Metatarsus adductus is a foot deformity. The bones in the front half of the foot bend or turn in toward the body.

Metatarsus varus; Forefoot varus

Metatarsus adductus is thought to be caused by the infant's position inside the womb. Risks may include:

• The baby's bottom pointed down in the womb (breech position)
• The mother had a condition called oligohydramnios, in which she did not produce enough amniotic fluid

There may also be a family history of the condition.

Metatarsus adductus is a fairly common problem. It is one of the reasons why people develop "in-toeing."

Newborns with metatarsus adductus often have a problem called developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH), in which the thigh bone slips out of the hip socket.

Images

Metatarsus adductus

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Metatarsus adductus Symptoms

Review Date: 10/31/2010
Reviewed By: C. Benjamin Ma, MD, Assistant Professor, Chief, Sports Medicine and Shoulder Service, UCSF Department of Orthopaedic Surgery. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org)