Toe-walking, or when a child walks only or mostly on their toes rather than using a heel-to-toe pattern, can become a painful and limiting habit. Although it’s common to see babies walk on their toes as they’re first learning, the pattern should fade around age two as their balance and muscles develop. When toe-walking continues, it often points to either a sensory concern or a mobility issue.
Here at Rehab Specialists of Idaho, we’re often asked what kind of therapy a toe-walking child needs and when a parent should be concerned. Every child is unique, but these general guidelines can help:
👣Signs Occupational Therapy may be needed:
• Toe-walking shows up off and on, not every step
• They crave or avoid certain sensations
• Other sensory quirks are noticeable in daily routines
• When they’re distracted or busy, they sometimes drop to flat feet without trying
👣Signs Physical Therapy may be needed:
• Toe-walking happens most of the time
• Calf muscles feel tight or stiff
• Limited ankle movement when you try to stretch the heels down
• Difficulty with balance skills like walking a line, hopping, or skipping
• Running looks awkward or they fatigue quickly
👣When it’s time to worry:
• Toe-walking continues past age three
• Toe-walking happens more than seventy percent of the time
• Heels cannot touch the ground without bending the knees
continue reading on our blog!
• They complain of calf or foot pain
• Increased tripping or coordination changes
• The pattern is getting worse instead of improving
If you’re concerned about your child’s toe-walking, give us a call to schedule a free screening or a full evaluation with a pediatric therapist.
Want to learn more? Check out these links:
Signs physical therapy is needed