Metatarsus adductus

What it means

The metatarsals are deviated medially (tibially), that is, the bones in the front half of the foot bend or turn in toward the body.

Metatarsus varus (adductus) is one of the most common foot deformities, that is defined as a transverse plane deformity in Lisfranc's (tarsometatarsal) joints in which the metatarsals are deviated medially. The relationship between talus and calcaneus is normal. On inspection the toes angle abruptly towards the midline, creating a C-shaped lateral foot border with a prominent styloid process of the 5th metatarsal. The result is that the forefoot is twisted inwards relative to the heel, so that the sole faces the midline.

Rare diseases that can present with this23

The range is how often this sign appears among people diagnosed with each disease — it is not a probability of having any of them. Many of these signs also occur in common, non-rare conditions. A sign on this page is a conversation to have with a clinician, not a conclusion.

Part of the broader category

Also called: Forefoot varus · Intoe · Metatarsus adductovarsus · Metatarsus varus · Sickle foot · Sickled feet