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Warning-sign checks

Metatarsus adductus: when to get help

Go through these in order and stop at the first one that applies. If you are reading this for someone else, answer for them.

  1. 1

    Is any of this happening now?

    Call 911

    Seek urgent or emergency care if toes below a cast become blue, very pale, cold, severely swollen, or difficult to move, or if there is severe and increasing pain.

    These signs can mean that circulation or nerves are under pressure.

    Other emergency signs, for anyone
    • Someone who is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
    • Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
    • Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
    • Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
    • Someone who is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
    • Someone who has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
    • Someone who has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
    • Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
  2. 2

    Is any of this happening?

    Be seen today

    If your child is wearing a cast or brace, contact the treating service promptly for increasing swelling, persistent rubbing, broken skin, a foul smell, drainage, or a cast that is wet, cracked, or slipping.

  3. 3

    Does any of this apply?

    Book an appointment

    Arrange a routine appointment if you notice that a baby's forefoot curves inward.

    This is not usually urgent, but an examination can confirm the type of foot shape and check how flexible it is.

The article also says

Seek an earlier assessment if:

The foot is stiff and cannot be gently moved toward straight

The heel also appears turned inward or downward

One leg or foot moves much less than the other

The curve becomes more noticeable rather than improving

An older child has pain, calluses, shoe problems, or difficulty walking

Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Metatarsus adductus. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.