Correcting a 'V-Shaped' Walking Style to a Straight Style

Although relatively uncommon, some individuals from children to adults may walk with a “V-shape,” also known as eversion or out-toeing. Causes range from underlying medical issues to structural bone and muscle problems. If left unaddressed, a V-shaped gait may lead to body misalignment and discomfort in the feet and back. While many with this gait experience no issues, seeking medical guidance and corrective measures is advisable if problems arise.

Observe your feet. Pay attention to your standing and walking posture. If your feet naturally form a V-shape, monitor the degree of outward turn to gauge the necessary adjustment towards inward rotation.

• Utilize a mirror for self-observation while standing and walking.
• Seek assistance from a friend or family member for external observation or photographic documentation.
• Monitor your walking pattern over a period to pinpoint problematic areas or factors exacerbating the V-shaped gait.

Utilize a treadmill for corrective walking. Using a treadmill can aid in straightening your gait gradually as you increase your pace.

• Start at a slow pace, around 1.0mph, ensuring each step is straight. Gradually increase speed.
• If a treadmill isn't available, walk on a flat surface like a road. Have a companion observe your stride for guidance.
• Aim for daily walks to reinforce your training and strengthen leg muscles.

Monitor and adjust your walking form. Pay close attention to your walking technique to avoid exacerbating your gait issue. Ensure:

• Your head is held high.
• You look straight ahead, not at the ground.
• Your chin is parallel to the ground.
• Your shoulders move naturally.
• Your back is neutral and straight, without arching forward or backward.
• Your abdominal muscles are lightly engaged.
• Your arms swing freely.
• You strike with your heel and roll it to your foot.

Persevere with gait correction. Persist in correcting your gait despite initial discomfort. Over time, the new walking style will become more natural.

• Encourage yourself for each improvement made in your gait.
• Seek support from friends, family, or counselors if frustration arises.

Regularly evaluate your progress. Assess your gait periodically to determine whether adjustments are needed.

• Observe your walking weekly or biweekly to track changes.
• Use a mirror or have a friend take pictures to monitor progress.
• Slightly increase speed only if walking straight, avoiding rapid changes.

Consider orthotics for flat feet. Flat feet can contribute to a V-shaped gait. Arch supports can alleviate discomfort.

• Purchase arch supports from stores or consult a podiatrist for custom options.

Discover the causes of eversion. Eversion is more common in young children but can occur in adults too. Several factors can lead to eversion, including:

• Flat feet (pes planus)
• External tibial torsion (outward twisting of the leg bone)
• Hip contracture (externally rotated hips)
• Femoral retroversion (thighbone angled backward).

Recognize out-toeing symptoms. Apart from the V-shaped feet, individuals with eversion may experience other symptoms such as:

• Difficulties with mobility, especially walking
• Knee pain
• Tightness in the hips
• Pain in the hips or lower back, sometimes extending to the neck and head
• Weakened knees, ankles, or hips.

Listen to your body. During activities like walking or running, pay attention to any discomfort or unusual sensations. This awareness can help you identify issues early and prevent them from worsening.

• Take note of symptoms, their onset, and severity.
• Identify factors that alleviate V-shaped walking or associated pain.

Consult a healthcare professional. If you experience pronounced symptoms or corrective efforts prove ineffective, make an appointment with your doctor. They can evaluate your gait, diagnose the issue, and recommend appropriate treatment.

• Inform your doctor about when you first noticed the V-shaped walk.
• Describe any pain or symptoms experienced.
• Permit your doctor to assess your gait and conduct necessary tests for a precise diagnosis and tailored treatment plan.

Undergo additional tests. Following the initial examination, your doctor might recommend further evaluations of your bones and muscles. Tests like MRI scans provide detailed insights, aiding in precise diagnosis and tailored treatment planning. Possible tests include:

• Neurological assessments to evaluate motor functions
• Imaging techniques like CT scans, MRI, or PET scans to examine lower body structures more comprehensively.

Seek treatment. Based on your doctor’s assessment and the extent of your V-shaped walking pattern, treatment may be necessary. This can not only correct your gait but also alleviate associated discomfort and structural issues. Treatment options for out-toeing may include:

• Observation for natural healing, often preferred for children.
• Surgical intervention to address structural abnormalities.
• Utilization of foot orthotics or braces.
• Note that certain interventions like shoes, braces, physical therapy, or chiropractic manipulation may show limited effectiveness in resolving out-toeing.