Is toe walking normal for kids? 👣
Toe walking is common in toddlers who are learning to walk, and many children grow out of it on their own. In this episode of The Pediatric Footcast, pediatric podiatrist Dr. Mikkel Jarman of Pediatric Foot & Ankle in Gilbert and Chandler, Arizona explains what causes toe walking in children, the signs to watch for, and when to see a specialist.
Quick answer: Toe walking is common in toddlers and often goes away on its own. If your child is still walking on their toes after age 5, or has pain, tight calves, or frequent tripping, it’s worth having a specialist take a look.
Questions we answer:
What causes toe walking in children? It can be neurological, genetic, or structural. Sometimes there’s no clear cause, which is called idiopathic toe walking.
What signs should parents watch for? Walking on toes most of the time, tight calves or heel cords, trouble standing with heels flat, frequent tripping, or toe walking on only one side.
When should my child see a specialist? If toe walking continues past age 5, or comes with pain or other developmental concerns.
How is toe walking treated? It depends on the cause. Options include stretching, physical therapy, bracing, and casting.
Whether you just noticed your child walking on their tiptoes or have been wondering about it for a while, this episode will help you understand what’s going on and what to do next.
📍 Pediatric Foot & Ankle | Gilbert, Chandler, Mesa, and the East Valley, AZ
📅 Book an appointment: pediatricfootankle.com
🎧 Listen free on Spotify, YouTube, and Apple Podcasts.
Have a question about your child’s feet? Leave it in the comments, and it might be answered in a future episode!
This podcast is for educational purposes and isn’t a substitute for medical advice. Talk to your child’s doctor about any symptoms.
#ToeWalking #PediatricPodiatry #KidsFootHealth
