MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia: Metatarsus adductus

Skip navigation

Medical Encyclopedia

Metatarsus adductus

Metatarsus adductus is a foot deformity characterized by a sharp, inward angle of the front half of the foot. It is thought to occur as a result of the infant's position inside the uterus where the feet are bent inward at the instep. Most cases resolve spontaneously and the majority of the remainder can be corrected with simple exercises.

Update Date: 8/29/2008

Updated by: Thomas N. Joseph, MD, Private Practice specializing in Orthopaedics, subspecialty Foot and Ankle, Camden Bone & Joint, Camden, SC. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright 1997-2009, A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.