Gait Issues in Children

Common Foot, Leg & Gait Issues in Children

In‑toeing

Feet point inward when walking; often linked to hip or leg rotation.

Out‑toeing

Feet point outward; may cause clumsiness or tripping.

Toe walking

Walking on the toes instead of the whole foot; normal in toddlers but should improve by age 3.

Limping

May be due to pain, injury, or developmental issues; should be checked if persistent.

Frequent tripping or falling

Often related to foot posture, leg alignment, or coordination delays.

Slapping feet (foot drop gait)

The foot makes a loud slap when walking; may indicate muscle weakness or nerve involvement.

Walking on the side of the foot

Can be due to instability, pain avoidance, or structural differences.

Knock knees (genu valgum)

Knees angle inward; common between ages 3–4 and usually improves.

Bow legs (genu varum)

Legs curve outward; normal in toddlers and usually resolves naturally.

Clubfoot (Congenital Talipes Equinovarus)

A structural condition present at birth where the foot turns inward and downward; requires early treatment.

Limb Length Difference (LLD)

One leg longer than the other; may affect balance, posture, and gait.

Foot pain

Not normal in children; may be caused by flat feet, overuse, poor footwear, or structural issues.

Heel pain (often Sever’s disease)

Common during growth spurts; causes pain at the back of the heel, especially during sport.

Leg pain

May be due to alignment issues, muscle tightness, overuse, or growth‑related conditions.

Neurological Gait Conditions

Cerebral palsy gait
A neurological condition that can affect muscle tone, balance, and walking patterns. Children may show toe walking, stiff legs, scissoring gait, or uneven steps. Early assessment helps support mobility and prevent long‑term issues.

Other neurological gait differences
Conditions affecting nerves or muscle control can lead to unusual walking patterns, weakness, or coordination difficulties