Child walking during pediatric gait therapy

Leading Edge Therapy

Idiopathic Toewalking

Does your child tiptoe walk no matter how many times you remind them to "put your heels down"? We can help figure out why — and create a plan to bring them down off their toes.

More Than a Habit

Idiopathic toewalking can occur for many reasons. Sensory problems, weakness, muscle tightness, and other issues can all contribute — and you need a professional to help sort it out.

We can create an individualized program that will help your child come down off their toes and develop a more typical walking pattern.

It's very important to identify the reason behind the toewalking before your child undergoes a more invasive procedure such as muscle-weakening injections or surgery. Conservative therapy is often highly effective when started early.

Call 678.367.2382 to Schedule
Pediatric therapist assessing child's gait and walking pattern

Before considering injections or surgery: It's very important to identify the reason behind the toewalking before your child undergoes a more invasive procedure such as muscle-weakening injections or surgery. Conservative therapy is often highly effective when started early.

Common Contributing Factors

Sensory Processing Differences

Some children walk on their toes because of heightened sensitivity to touch or texture on the soles of their feet.

Muscle Tightness

Tight calf muscles or Achilles tendons can make flat-footed walking uncomfortable or difficult.

Muscle Weakness

Weakness in the hip, core, or lower leg muscles can contribute to a toewalking pattern.

Neuromotor Factors

Underlying neurological differences in muscle tone or motor control may drive persistent toewalking.

Habit or Learned Pattern

In some cases, toewalking becomes a deeply ingrained movement habit that requires targeted retraining to change.

Vestibular or Balance Issues

Difficulties with balance and proprioception can lead children to seek stability through a toewalking posture.

Our Evaluation & Treatment Approach

Dr. Castle conducts a thorough evaluation to identify the specific factors driving your child's toewalking. This includes assessing muscle strength, flexibility, sensory responses, balance, and gait mechanics.

Treatment is individualized and may include stretching and strengthening exercises, sensory integration strategies, gait retraining, orthotics guidance, and home program instruction for parents.

Our goal is always to find the least invasive, most effective path forward — keeping your child comfortable and engaged throughout the process.

Let's Find Out Why — and Fix It

Don't wait for toewalking to become a bigger problem. Early evaluation can prevent the need for more invasive interventions. Call 678.367.2382 today — we'll answer your questions and get your child seen quickly.

Call 678.367.2382 to Schedule