What Is Toe Walking?
Toe walking is when children walk on the balls of their feet, keeping their heels off the ground. This is common in toddlers as they are learning to walk. Most children naturally stop toe walking by the age of 2.
What Causes Toe Walking?
- Children might toe walk due to various reasons, including:
- Learning to walk.
- Having tight calf muscles.
- Having a tight Achilles tendon.
- Having a neurologic disorder (such as cerebral palsy or autism).
- Having muscular dystrophy, which affects muscles.
Sometimes, the reason for toe walking is not known.
What Problems Can Toe Walking Cause?
Toe walking can increase a child’s risk of falling. Additionally, a child might feel self-conscious about walking differently from other kids.
How Do Doctors Diagnose Toe Walking?
Doctors diagnose toe walking by asking questions and performing a physical examination. If necessary, they may conduct additional tests, such as:
- EMG (Electromyography): To assess how the muscles and nerves function.
- Gait Analysis: To evaluate movements during walking.
- Neurologic Testing: To check for problems with brain and spinal cord function or developmental delays.
Children who toe walk may need to see an orthopedic doctor, a specialist in treating issues related to bones and joints.
How Do Doctors Treat Toe Walking?
Many young children outgrow toe walking, so doctors might initially opt to monitor the child’s progress without treatment.
If toe walking persists, or if the child has a physical cause for toe walking (such as tight muscles or tendons), treatment options may include:
- Physical therapy
- Leg braces or splints
- Casting
- Surgery
When Should I Call the Doctor?
Contact your doctor if:
- Your child is over 2 years old and still toe walks.
- Your child was walking normally and then starts to toe walk.
- You have concerns about your child’s development related to toe walking.
How Can Parents Help?
If your child is toe walking, assist them in following the doctor’s instructions. If your child is under 2, your doctor may recommend a follow-up in a few months to check for improvement.
If treatment is recommended, help your child by:
- Doing stretching or strengthening exercises.
- Attending physical therapy sessions.
- Seeing an orthopedic specialist.
- Wearing leg braces or splints.