Walking on tiptoes
Walking on tiptoes (also known as toe-walking) refers to an abnormal walking pattern in which children walk continuously on their toes. Children usually do not experience any discomfort from this, but it is not good for the Achilles tendon. This can become overloaded due to the incorrect walking pattern, which may lead to pain.
What causes toe-walking?
Walking on tiptoes can occur because some children have calf muscles that are shorter than average, making it slightly more difficult for them to put their heels on the ground. Sometimes, a leg deformity is the cause. It can also be due to a habitual posture.
Symptoms of walking on tiptoes
Walking on your toes does not necessarily cause pain. Symptoms that may occur include:
- Calluses on the forefoot
- Wider forefoot
- Faster falls
- Less balance
- Difficult to find suitable footwear
- Pain in the calves, in the ankle and around the knee joint
- Muscle pain lasting for days after exercising
Treatment for toe-walking
When walking on tiptoes is caused by an incorrect gait pattern resulting from a habitual posture, it is important that the child becomes aware of the correct gait pattern. The podiatrist can help with this by providing advice on the roll of the foot and wearing suitable footwear. There may also be podiatric insoles can be used. In most cases, walking on tiptoes stops naturally as the child gets older and heavier, but it can persist for years.
