Diagnosis and treatment.
Toe walking is a pattern in which the heel does not routinely touch the ground. It may occur while learning to walk and disappear, or persist with varying frequency as the child grows.
We ask when it began, whether it affects one or both feet and whether the child can place the heel down when asked. We also observe balance and coordination.
Ankle movement and calf muscle length provide important information. A rigid, persistent pattern or other associated signs call for more thorough assessment.
Treatment depends on cause, age and flexibility. Decisions are based on foot function and development, not appearance alone.
Constant or increasing toe walking, or limited weight-bearing, warrants specialist assessment to understand the cause.
When it occurs
It may occur occasionally while learning to walk or persist as a habitual pattern. Frequency and onset provide important information.
What we check
We assess ankle movement, muscle length and walking to determine whether the pattern is flexible or restricts weight-bearing.
How it is assessed
We ask when toe walking occurs, whether both feet are involved, whether it can be voluntarily corrected and whether the ankle retains full movement. These findings guide the next step.