Intoeing
Disclaimer
These guidelines have been produced to guide clinical decision making for general practitioners (GPs). They are not strict protocols. Clinical common-sense should be applied at all times. These clinical guidelines should never be relied on as a substitute for proper assessment with respect to the particular circumstances of each case and the needs of each patient. Clinicians should also consider the local skill level available and their local area policies before following any guideline.
|
|
If there is acute onset with pain or fever, please send the child to the nearest Emergency Department.
|
Introduction
Intoeing is usually the result of a benign variant and will usually improve by the age of 12 years. Mild intoeing persisting into adulthood is not linked to functional disability or the development of arthritis.
Benign intoeing generally does not cause pain or functional difficulties. Tripping and falling in the under 5 year age group is rarely a concern without other developmental or neurological concerns.
Further investigation is needed in the following situations:
- Rigid deformity of the foot.
- Reduced range of motion in the hip.
- Limp or pain.
- Scoliosis, neurological abnormality or hypotonicity.
- Asymmetry.
For current guidelines on assessment, management and referral guidelines on intoeing please visit Clinician Assist WA.
How to refer
- Routine non-urgent referrals from a GP or a Consultant are made via the Central Referral Service
- Routine non-urgent referrals from private hospitals are made via the PCH Referral Office
- Urgent referrals (less than seven days) are made via the PCH Referral Office. Please call PCH Switch on 6456 2222 to discuss referral with the relevant speciality registrar.
| Reviewer/Team: |
Dr Kate Stannage, Orthopaedics Dept, PCH |
Last reviewed: |
Jul 2021 |
|
|
Review date: |
Jul 2024 |
This document can be made available in alternative formats on request for a person with a disability.