Femoral Anteversion
Femoral anteversion is an inward twisting of the thigh bone, also known as the femur. Femoral anteversion causes the child’s knees and feet to turn inward, or have a pigeon-toed appearance. It is typically noticed when the child is four to six years old.
What causes femoral anteversion?
Femoral anteversion can be the result of stiff hip muscles due to the position of the baby in the uterus. It also has a tendency to run in families. Typically, a child’s walking style looks like that of his or her parents.
When the child is first learning how to walk, femoral anteversion can create an in-toeing appearance. As the knees and feet turn in, the legs look like they are bowed. The bowed leg stance actually helps the child achieve greater balance as they stand.
Balance is not as steady when they try to stand and walk with their feet close together or with their feet turned out. This may cause them to trip and fall.
How is femoral anteversion treated?
The twisting in of the thigh bone usually improves with time. As the child grows, normal walking patterns typically resume by 8 to 10 years of age. In some cases, braces or special shoes are prescribed by the doctor. On rare occasions, femoral anteversion can be severe and surgery may be required to straighten the thigh bone.