Toe walking is a common condition in kids. Just because it is common, doesn't mean it's okay! Toe walking generally occurs because children don't have the ability to compensate for mechanical issues. So where adults may have flat feet for these same issues, kids end up lifting up on their toes. Many pediatrician aren't alarmed by toe walking and insist that kids will just grow out of it. In most cases that isn't the case.
As a child develops, the heels will come down to the ground and it will appear that your pediatrician was right after all. In truth, the child just becomes able to compensate. You may see the feet angling out like a duck and the arch flatten out as he walks. This may result in foot pain, heel pain, and knee pain. It is better to address these issues early before they cause problems later in life.
If you are noticing your son or daughter walking on their toes, or they used to be a toe walker when they were younger, it is worthwhile to get them checked out. This is especially true if they have any pain! At Tanglewood Foot Specialists, Dr. Andrew Schneider will assess how your child walks and see if corrective measures, such as a custom foot orthotic, is needed.
