Idiopathic toe walking, as it's called, occurs when a child continues to favor their toes for walking or running. This behavior, if left unchecked, can lead to tight calf muscles and decreased ankle movement. However, there are methods to address toe walking effectively. For children under six, treatment may involve calf stretches, Achilles tendon stretches, and sit-to-stand exercises. Older children may benefit from calf stretches, marching in place, and walking uphill. Other exercises include walking on uneven surfaces, heel walking, and squats. These aim to stretch and strengthen the calf muscles, while promoting a heel-to-toe walking pattern. It is important for parents to identify toe walking early to prevent potential complications, such as muscle tightness and weakness. If your child exhibits persistent toe walking beyond three years of age, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can assess the extent of your child's condition, and provide recommendations tailored to their specific needs. 

The health of a child’s feet is vital to their overall well-being. If you have any questions regarding foot health, contact John Horlebein, DPM of Northern Cascades Foot & Ankle, LLC. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Tips for Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

• Make sure their shoes fit properly
• Look for any signs of in-toeing or out-toeing
• Check to see if they have Clubfoot (condition that affects your child’s foot and ankle, twisting the heel and toes inward) which is one of the most common nonmajor birth defects.
• Lightly cover your baby’s feet (Tight covers may keep your baby from moving their feet freely, and could prevent normal development)
• Allow your toddler to go shoeless (Shoes can be restricting for a young child’s foot)
• Cut toenails straight across to avoid ingrown toenails
• Keep your child’s foot clean and dry
• Cover cuts and scrapes. Wash any scratches with soap and water and cover them with a bandage until they’ve healed.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Chelan, WA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.