At-Home Help for Pigeon Toes

With Thanksgiving talk taking over all your conversations this week, instead of talking turkey, let’s focus on another species of foul – pigeons! Parents often worry if their child walks pigeon toed, but this condition, known as in-toeing, typically resolves itself on its own. That’s not to say, though, that you should just sit back and wait. There are some things that can be done to help your child along. In fact, you can incorporate simple physical therapy exercises into your everyday lives – and even make a game of it! Here are some fun ways to get your child on the right course:

Tracing Time. Have your child sit in a chair with feet flat on the floor and legs uncrossed. Next, trace feet in a slightly outward pointing position, then encourage your child to fit his or her feet in the outlines whenever sitting to color, read, eat, or watch TV.

Follow the Leader – Backwards! In a safe space with no obstacles, have your child imitate you as you walk backward which helps to strengthen hip joints and encourages feet to stay straight.

Walking the Plank. Use pieces of wood to make a beam just a few inches off the floor, then have your child place one foot in front of the other to walk across it. This will strengthen muscles that help keep hips and shin bones properly aligned.

Dance Party. Ballet and other dance forms often help in training tiny legs to align correctly and keep muscles limber. Dance together on your own, or sign up for lessons, then break out the tunes (not to mention the tutus)!

Of course, if you do notice your child has an abnormal gait such as walking pigeon toed, it’s important to make an appointment and have your child assessed to rule out any potential underlying conditions and ensure the right treatment measures are taken.