Why Does My Child Toe Walk? - Podiatrist Georgina Tay, East Coast Podiatry

Toe Walking in Children: Causes, Management, and Prevention

Toe walking is a common concern for most parents, especially when it continues or occurs beyond the age of two. It can be a sign of a developmental delay, a poor vestibular system, or an underlying condition such as autism, ADHD, dyslexia, dysgraphia, or Asperger's.

In some cases, toe walking is simply a habit. For example, hyper-mobile children who struggle to engage an arch often toe walk to activate their arch.

Here are some additional tips for managing toe walking in children:

Make sure your child's shoes fit properly. Shoes that are too tight can make it difficult for your child to walk on their heels.

Encourage your child to participate in activities that require them to use their heels, such as running, jumping, and playing sports.

Be patient and understanding. Toe walking can be a difficult habit to break. It may take some time and effort to help your child stop toe-walking.

If your child is toe walking, it is important to have them checked by a physician or a podiatrist to rule out any underlying medical conditions. These medical professionals can advise you on a number of different management strategies that can be used to help children who toe walk.