In children, toe walking is a frequent condition. Just because something is frequent, does not imply it is okay! Toe walking is common in children because they lack the capacity to adjust for mechanical difficulties. For the same reasons, adults may have flat feet, whereas children tend to raise their toes. Many pediatricians are unconcerned about toe walking and believe that children will outgrow it. Most of the time, however, this is not the case.
As a child grows, the heels will drop to the ground, proving that your pediatrician was correct all along. In reality, the child just learns to compensate. As he walks, you can see his feet angling out like a duck and his arch flattening out. Foot, heel, and knee pain may arise as a result of this. It is preferable to address these concerns early in life rather than later in life when they produce problems.
It’s worth getting your child checked out if you notice them walking on their toes or if they used to be a toe walker when they were smaller. This is especially true if they are in discomfort. Dr. Ejodamen Shobowale of DeNiel Foot and Ankle Center will do a thorough evaluation of your child’s gait and determine if a custom foot orthotic is necessary.
