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METATARSUS ADDUCTUS (MTA)

Metatarsus adductus is a condition where the rear foot is normal but the midfoot deviates medially (inwardly).  It is a common foot deformity, occurring in one to two cases per 1,000 births.

Of MTA cases identified at birth, 85 to 90 percent resolve by one year of age.  A her study found that 87 percent of MTA cases had resolved by six years of age, with only about 4 percent remaining at age 16.

Mild MTA will resolve on its own.  Moderate (semi-flexible, reducible) MTA can be treated with stretching exercises.  For the majority of MTA cases, the prognosis is good. In severe cases, excessive compensation at the level of the mediotarsal joint can lead to the development of bunions, hammertoes, and other disorders.  Serial casting and bracing address these issues.

Other names or similar foot conditions:

• Metatarsus varus

Symptoms:

• None in children but if the condition does not correct itself bunions, hammertoes and other toe disorders can develop earlier in life
• Pain across the lateral (outside) portion of the forefoot

Signs to look for:

• Subluxation of the forefoot at the tarsometatarsal joints (the joint area is loose and moves)
• This is an observable condition

Possible Causes:

• Intra-uterine positioning

Goals:

• This can be corrected as an infant but when it is not:
• Move foot forward with as little lateral movement as possible
• Right kind of shoes for this type of foot
• Take pressure off the front part of the foot
• Restore a normal gait

Solutions:

Arch Supports:

• Bio-Orthotics Winstep or Sundance exercising support with metatarsal lift

• Lower and thinner arch support with longitudinal and metatarsal support, such as the Bio-Orthotics Journey or Silhouette, for use when shoes cannot accommodate the Winstep or Sundance exercising support

• Extra depth shoes with firm heel counter, high toe box and rocker sole

• Wear heels and pumps only as long as absolutely necessary

• For exercising, wear shoes with titanium springs

• Avoid going barefoot or do so on a minimal basis only

Other: 

Toe cushioning and straightening devices, such as toe separators, toe straighteners, toe gel caps, toe crests, etc.

Activities:

• Regular stretching of gastrocnemius and soleus muscles, Achilles tendon and arch structure

• Rotate weight bearing exercises, such as walking or jogging, with non-weight bearing exercising, such as swimming or bicycling

This information does not constitute a diagnosis of your condition and does not take the place of a doctor’s care.  The information has been compiled from sources available to the general public and referenced below.  Copyright 2005 Carole Romig

Sources  Image:  aafp.org  Text: aafp.org, A. Decker, S. Albert, Contemporary Pedorthics