Toe-Walking

Step Forward: Empowering Toe-Walkers with Effective Therapy Solutions

Intro to Toe-Walking?

Toe walking is a complex condition that requires both physiotherapy and podiatry treatment. We run a joint physiotherapist and podiatrist led Toe Walking Clinic to provide the best coordinated treatment for toe-walking and other complex foot conditions.

What causes
Toe-Walking?

Habitual Toe Walking

Neurological Disorders, such as
Cerebral Palsy

Neuromuscular Conditions

Sensory Regulation

Tightness Through Calf Muscles

Abdominal Weakness

What is Toe-Walking?

Toe walking is exactly as it sounds - when children walk on their toes. 

Toe walking can be caused by many factors including sensory regulation, neurological or neuromuscular causes or it can be habitual. Toe walking usually starts off occurring for short durations across the day, and over time, children who consistently walk on their toes can develop tightness in their calf muscles which can lead to muscle shortening or contractures - setting up the process of toe-walking to continue. Children who toe-walk can often experience pain and discomfort when walking or running with their heels on the ground. 

Children should be assessed if they walk on their toes for more than 30% of the time. If a child has been persistently toe walking for years, they require a very coordinated treatment approach to help them achieve an efficient heel-toe walking pattern.

How is Toe Walking Diagnosed?

  • A thorough history to determine the time-frame and context of the toe walking 

  • A gait (walking) assessment to observe a child's walking pattern

  • Range of motion testing

What Does The Initial Assessment Involve?

  • The appointment is run by both a paediatric physiotherapist and podiatrist

  • Your child's walking pattern, range of motion and muscle strength will be assessed

  • We will discuss a treatment plan for your child that may involve stretching, orthotics, muscle strengthening, activity modification, night bracing or serial casting.

  • We will plan and schedule follow up appointments to monitor your child's progress. 

What Makes Our Toe Walking Clinic Different?

Persistent toe-walking requires a coordinated treatment approach. Even if treatment options have been trialled previously, often changing the order, intensity or frequency of a treatment option can lead to improved outcomes. For this reason, our toe-walking is run by both a physiotherapist and podiatrist. Some children's toe-walking is severe and requires surgical intervention such as calf-lengthening surgeries. We work closely with orthopaedic surgeons to provide collaborative care. We are excited to provide the best care for children and families. 

Have questions? Go to our FAQs

Help Starts Here!

If you're seeking care for your child's physical development and well-being, we're here to help. We are committed to providing compassionate and effective treatment tailored to your child's unique needs. Whether your child is experiencing difficulties with mobility, balance, coordination, or other physical challenges, we're here to support them on their journey toward improved strength, function, and independence.

Contact us today to schedule an appointment and take the first step toward unlocking your child's full potential.