If you’ve noticed your child walking on their tiptoes, you’re not alone. Toe walking is surprisingly common in toddlers – it’s something we’re asked about a lot in our Redlands podiatrist clinic. But when should you shrug it off, and when should you take a closer look?
Here’s what parents and carers need to know.
Why Might My Child Walk on Tip Toes?
Many kids go through a phase of toe walking as toddlers simply because they’re still developing coordination and balance. In these early years, it’s often just part of learning to move confidently.
It can also be something done out of habit with no known reason, sometimes referred to as ‘Idiopathic Toe Walking.’
However, some children toe-walk due to tight calf muscles or Achilles tendons. In more rare cases, toe walking can be linked to neurological or developmental conditions like autism, cerebral palsy or muscular dystrophy – though for most kids, it isn’t.
Should I Be Concerned if My Child Is Toe Walking?
Occasional toe walking isn’t usually a worry. But if your child continues to walk on tiptoe past the age of three, it’s worth getting it checked out.
Additionally, if your child is experiencing any of the following, we recommend making an appointment with an experienced kids podiatrist or paediatrician:
- They can’t place their heels down when asked
- It’s making everyday activities challenging, eg constant tripping or falling
- They’re toe walking only on one side
- They’re experiencing associated pain or discomfort
Importantly, you should seek advice sooner if toe walking is happening alongside delays in movement, muscle stiffness, poor balance, or sensory sensitivities. Early assessment can rule out underlying issues and give you peace of mind.
What Age Should Toe Walking Stop?
Most children outgrow toe walking naturally between the ages of two and three. If it’s still happening consistently after this, it becomes known as persistent toe walking – and that’s your cue to look a little deeper.
What Should I Do if My Child Is Walking on Tip Toe?
Start by observing when it happens: Is it all the time, or only when they’re excited, or barefoot?
Encourage your child to place their heels down to gently stretch their calves during play. But avoid forcing their feet into a flat position as this could cause discomfort.
Some fun activities you could encourage at home include:
- Heel down, balancing on one leg
- Walking on heels
- Walking heel-toe forwards or backwards down a line
If toe walking is frequent, persistent, or causing concern, book an assessment with an experienced podiatrist.
Book an Appointment for your Child at our Redlands Podiatry Clinic
At Trevor Lane Podiatry, we can assess your child’s gait, muscle flexibility, and overall lower-limb function. We use a child-friendly, evidence-based approach to determine whether walking on tip toes is a habit, a mechanical issue, or something that needs further investigation.
If required, treatment istailored to your child’s individual needs, but may include:
- Stretching and strengthening programs
- Foot mobilisation therapy
- Gait retraining
- Custom orthotics to support proper foot movement
- Referral to other specialists, such as an orthopaedic paediatrician, if needed
Toe walking is common – but it’s also something you don’t have to navigate alone. If you’re concerned about your child’s walking pattern, we’re here to help. You can book an appointment online with our experienced family podiatrist or phone us on (07) 3207 4736 today.