Is toe walking, normal or a big problem?
Have you ever witnessed a toddler walking on his or her toes? I am sure you do. It’s common in toddlers below the age of 2 years. We all walked on our toes in our early stages when we were learning to walk because toddlers feel more stable while walking on their toes. This walking style usually stops when they reach the age of 2 years. So, there is nothing to worry about if you see your toddler under 2 years old walking on his toe. But, what about an adult? Is it okay for a full-grown adult to walk on their toe, or is it a question of health concern?
In this article, we will understand, why toe walking in adults, is a major health concern, and whether there are solutions to this problem.
Toe Walking
Toe walking is a style of walking, in which a child walks on the balls of their feet, with no contact between the heels and ground, which is common for children under 2 years. But, when this style of walking, continues after 2 years or is adopted by adults, it’s not common. It can signify an underlying medical condition that needs to be recognized and treated.
The Surprising Truth About Toe Walking in Adults
Toe walking in adulthood can be due to a habit that never got corrected in childhood, or due to certain medical conditions, and it needs to be addressed because it can lead to strain on feet, ankles, and lower legs causing pain and injury over time. Toe walking affects your balance and mobility leading to the risk of falls. This problem may give rise to further problems, such as back pain, knee issues, and hip problems.
How Common is Toe Walking in Adults?
As we have seen above, toe walking is a common phenomenon, for children below 2 years, and there is nothing to worry about. It’s just a phase and usually gets corrected with time. But, what if this style of walking continues, then it’s something to worry about, and consult with a health care expert as soon as possible.
Common Causes of Toe Walking in Adults
Adult walking on the toe, as much as it sounds uncommon, in reality, it is. Yes, toe walking in adults is a rare phenomenon, which may be due to unresolved childhood habits or underlying medical conditions. This underlying medical condition may be linked to cerebral palsy, muscular dystrophy, and autism spectrum disorder.
According to a study, it has been concluded that 9% of children walk on their toes due to idiopathic reasons, where no specific cause is identified, and they might continue this behavior as they age if not addressed effectively.
Toe Walking Treatments
Research suggests that idiopathic toe walking, where no specific cause is identified, may have an underlying neurological cause, and can be treated by following methods:
Botulinum Toxin Tretament
Studies have shown that, when botulinum toxin injections are combined with stretching exercises, it improves gait in the tight calf muscles. However, its impact may vary and more research is needed to confirm its long-term benefits.
Orthotic Devices
Orthotic devices, such as heel cups or ankle foot orthotics, can help support proper foot positioning and minimize toe walking.
Surgical Interventions
Surgical interventions are never the first solution to any problem. In cases where conservative treatments fail, surgical lengthening of the Achilles tendons can be considered.
Physical Therapy
Physical therapy focuses on passive stretching of calf muscles, by making one walk with hands on the floor, hips in the air, and heels down, to create a dynamic stretch for the calf muscles. The therapist may also work on motor control strategies and gait training to facilitate the heel strike during walking.
Footwear Modification
While purchasing footwear, most people go for the look and only a few go with the comfort, it is something we don’t link with health, but footwear can have a major impact, at least more than we have imagined. Supportive footwear with firm heel counters can help in maintaining proper foot alignment and reduce toe walking, providing us comfort.
Behavioral Interventions
Practice mindfulness and habit of reversal techniques may be useful; in addressing habitual toe walking.
Effective Exercises for Adults
Stretching Exercises
Specific stretches can impact flexibility in the calves and Achilles tendon. This stretching can be done both in clinical and at home.
Strengthening Exercises
Exercises such as crunching, sit-to-stand, climbing stairs with reciprocal patterns, backward walking against resistance, penguin walking and marble pick-up can strengthen foot and ankle muscles.
Balance and Coordination
Motor control strategies and gait training can improve overall balance and proprioception.
Conclusion
Toe walking is common for children below 2 years old, but in children above 2 years and adults, it’s a matter of concern and is linked to underlying health conditions such as cerebral palsy, muscular dystrophy, and autism spectrum disorder. These disorders can lead to multiple problems such as the strain on feet, ankles, and lower legs causing pain and injury over time. Multiple treatments are available to treat toe walking which include, physical therapy, medication, and surgery. Results from this treatment may vary from person to person depending upon the seriousness, it’s better to seek help from an expert as soon as possible when the condition is diagnosed.