Toe Walking
Toe Walking in Children
It’s common for young children to walk on their tiptoes when they are first learning to walk. For many, this is just a phase that they grow out of naturally. However, if toe walking continues beyond the age of 2–3 years, happens frequently, or your child is unable to place their heels down, it may be worth seeking advice.
Possible causes include:
Habitual walking pattern
Tight calf muscles or Achilles tendon
Developmental delays
Neurological conditions (e.g. cerebral palsy)
When to seek support:
Toe walking is persistent past age 3
Your child cannot walk with heels down when asked
There are concerns about balance, coordination, or development
Toe walking is painful or affecting daily activities
At Bloom and Balance Physio, we assess children’s walking patterns in a fun, child-centred way and provide tailored exercises, stretches, and strategies to support healthy movement and development.
Toe walking, should I be concerned?
What is idiopathic toe walking?
Toe walking means a child walks on the balls of their feet without their heels touching the ground. Sometimes this is due to a medical condition, but when there’s no clear cause, it’s called idiopathic toe walking. "Idiopathic" just means we don’t know the exact reason why.
Why does it happen?
Many toddlers go through a phase of walking on their toes when they first learn to walk.
In some children, the habit just continues beyond the toddler years.
Some kids might toe walk because it feels natural, or they like the sensation.
Is it something to worry about?
Most children who toe walk grow out of it on their own.
If toe walking continues past the age of 3–4 years, it’s worth keeping an eye on.
Toe walking is only a concern if:
The child can’t put their heels down when asked.
It’s happening all the time.
It’s linked with pain, stiffness, clumsiness, or other developmental concerns.
What can parents do?
Encourage your child to walk with their heels down through play (e.g., walking like animals, jumping games, or walking uphill).
Stretching the calf muscles can sometimes help if they are a bit tight.
Supportive, heavier footwear can make heel contact easier.
If toe walking is persistent or you’re worried, a physiotherapist can check for tightness, muscle strength, muscle tone or balance issues.
Reassurance: In most cases, idiopathic toe walking is just a habit and doesn’t cause long-term problems. With time, encouragement, and sometimes physiotherapy support, children usually learn to walk with their heels down.