It is common to see differences from child to child when looking at them walk - every child is unique! Though this is true, there are some critical aspects of gait that are needed to ensure adequate development, such as the angle of feet and walking heel-to-toe with each step.
Kids are generally unaware if they are walking differently, unless it's painful, therefore it's the job of the parents/care givers to notice these areas of concern.
Kids are generally unaware if they are walking differently, unless it's painful, therefore it's the job of the parents/care givers to notice these areas of concern.
Some signs to keep an eye out for are:
- "clumsy" or uncoordinated walking
- toes pointing inward when the child stands or walks
- legs "bowwing" when standing with feet together
- complaints of pain or fatigue in legs/feet after activity
- knees looking like they are turned inward/out ward instead of pointing forward
It's a good idea to let these concerns be known to the child's pediatrician, as there can be underlying developmental concerns that are time sensitive as the child gets older.
- "clumsy" or uncoordinated walking
- toes pointing inward when the child stands or walks
- legs "bowwing" when standing with feet together
- complaints of pain or fatigue in legs/feet after activity
- knees looking like they are turned inward/out ward instead of pointing forward
It's a good idea to let these concerns be known to the child's pediatrician, as there can be underlying developmental concerns that are time sensitive as the child gets older.
