After tons of practice, ups, downs, and tumbles, most children walk between the ages of 10 and 14 months. This is typically a fun and exciting time for kids and parents alike; it’s a right-of-passage and milestone for babies, and most parents clap with delight as their little one takes the first few steps. If you have ever seen a baby start walking, you’ve probably noticed their gait is nothing like that of a grown adult! New walkers have a wider base of support and keep their legs farther apart as they learn to balance. Those beginning to walk are also typically very wobbly and don’t usually strike their heels with each step or swing their arms. If you can believe it, most kids don’t walk with an adult-like pattern until age seven!
What is toe-walking?
Sometimes, when babies are learning to walk, they pop up on the tips of their toes. There are many reasons why this happens, ranging from habit to difficulties processing sensory information through their feet and/or legs. Additionally, toe-walking might co-exist with another diagnosis, such as autism spectrum disorder, cerebral palsy, or muscular dystrophy. While it can initially look kind of cute, if carried on for prolonged periods, toe-walking can put a heavy amount of stress on the body. Walking with the wrong gait can cause muscle tightness, especially in the calf, leading to a poor range of motion at the ankle. If this happens, the way a child walks is affected, as well as other things, such as riding a bike, running during a game of tag, or going upstairs.
When does toe-walking become a concern?
Left untreated, toe-walking can create many problems, such as decreased movement and the inability to stand with feet flat on the ground (learn about the importance of early intervention). Sometimes, children who toe-walk too long need surgery to correct the damage done to their bodies.
When To Consult A Pediatric PT
Around the ages of 18-24 months, most kids will have a normal heel-to-toe pattern. If your child has not outgrown toe-walking by this age, consider having an evaluation done by a pediatric physical therapist. If your child needs PT, the physical therapist can work with your kiddo to stretch and strengthen their muscles. They will also play with your child and create games to reverse the desire to toe-walk and its effects on the body. With the proper help of a pediatric physical therapist, toe-walking can be corrected, and a typical walking pattern can be established.
