Can exercises improve in-toeing?

An intoeing gait  is usually associated with some weakness and tightness of the hip, knee and ankle muscles. 

An exercise program to improve this weakness and tightness of the leg muscles can improve foot and knee alignment when standing and walking. 

An exercise program is particularly helpful when the degree of anteversion and tibial torsion is not severe, and may even help to accelerate the normal reduction in the angle of anteversion which occurs over time. 

It must be kept in mind that an exercise program while improving strength, flexibility and function  will probably not affect severe femoral anteversion or tibial torsion to any degree. However, if a derotation osteotomy of the femur is being considered, improving a child's strength, flexibility and function before surgery will improve the outcome.

The SfA program of exercises 

The SfA exercise program includes exercises designed to improve the impaired flexibility (muscle tightness) and strength and coordination commonly experienced by children who stand and walk with in-toeing. 

Exercises to stretch tight hip muscles so that the child can stand on one leg and keep the pelvis level and the knees facing forwards

Standing on one leg exercises: to improve the ability to stand on one leg with good pelvic and leg alignment. 

Hip flexion exercises: to improve the child's ability to lift the leg forwards with the foot straight. 

Walking exercises: to improve foot placement, balance and coordination.

To access the exercise program

Subscribe to the SfA Fitness and Coordination On-line Training Guide
Includes PDF files for home exercise programs (HEPs). 

Disclaimer: The content on this site is provided for general information purposes only and does not constitute professional advice.