Toeing walking, also known as tiptoe walking, is a common gait pattern observed in young children as they learn to walk. While it is typically a phase that resolves on its own as the child develops, in some cases, persistent toe walking can be a sign of an underlying condition that requires medical attention. This article discusses the types of shoes that can help discourage toe walking and promote a more natural walking pattern.
Types of Shoes that Will Discourage Toe Walking
Flat Shoes
Flat shoes, such as sneakers without heels or any sort of heel, place the foot in a position where the calf muscles are in a shortened position. This can lead to muscle shortening in the calves and, in turn, encourage more toe walking. Avoiding these shoes can help reduce your child’s desire to walk on their toes.
Squeaky Shoes
Some footwear brands designs shoes with squeakers in the heel. These shoes can be fun for kids but can be frustrating for parents. Kids can hear the squeak each time they walk down their heels, which can help them become more aware of their footsteps and may encourage a heel-to-toe walking pattern.
High-Back Shoes
Shoes with a higher backing, compared to other shoes, can press up against the Achilles tendon, which can be uncomfortable for children. These shoes make it uncomfortable for a child to toe walk, so they help facilitate walking on flat feet.
Light-up Shoes
Lights-up shoes often have lights towards the back of the shoe by the heel. If a child walks flat on the ground, the lights will light up more than if the child walks up on toes. This can be visually stimulating for children and may add an element of excitement and fun to their walking experience, while not directly impacting toe walking.
Best Shoes To Prevent Toe Walking
While shoes alone are not a primary treatment for toe walking, certain shoe features may be beneficial in promoting a more typical gait pattern. Here are some considerations when selecting a proper shoe for a child who toe walks:
Firm Heel Counters
Look for shoes with a firm and supportive heel counter, which is the back part of the shoe that wraps around the heel. A firm heel counter provides stability and helps prevent excessive ankle movement, encouraging a heel-to-toe gait.
Arch Support
Adequate arch support can help maintain proper foot alignment and promote a more natural walking pattern. Look for shoes with built-in arch support or consider using orthotic inserts if recommended by a healthcare professional.
Flexible Soles
Shoes with a flexible sole allow for natural movement and flexibility of the foot. This can help the child develop a more normal walking pattern and engage the muscles of the foot and ankle appropriately.
Proper Fit
Ensure that the shoes fit well and are neither too loose nor too tight. Shoes that are too loose can lead to instability, while shoes that are too tight can restrict proper foot movement and cause discomfort. It's important to adjust the fit of shoes as the child grows to prevent discomfort and promote optimal foot development.
##Choosing the right shoes can play a crucial role in managing toe walking in children. By selecting shoes that promote a more natural walking pattern, you can help prevent or minimize potential complications and improve overall function and comfort for your child. If you notice your child is toe-walking the majority of the time and is over 2 years old, it would be beneficial to speak with your pediatrician and physical therapist to determine if further intervention is needed.
