As time passes, you may notice that your child's growth isn't completely on the
straight and narrow. Many young kids have flatfeet, toe walking, pigeon toes, bowlegs,
and knock-knees.
As kids grow, some of these conditions correct themselves without treatment. Others
don't or become more severe because of other medical conditions. But many orthopedic
(bone) conditions, just like dimples or cleft chins, are just normal variations of
human anatomy that don't need to be treated.
Flatfeet
Most babies are born with flatfeet and develop arches as they grow. But in some
kids the arch never fully develops. Parents often first notice this because their
child has what they describe as "weak ankles" (which appear to turn inward because
of the way the feet are planted).
Flatfeet usually don't cause problems. Doctors only consider treatment if it becomes
painful. They also don't recommend any special footwear, such as high-top shoes, because
these don't affect the development of the arch.
Parents sometimes worry that flatfeet will make their kids clumsier than other
kids, but doctors say that being flatfooted isn't a cause for concern and shouldn't
interfere with playing sports. Sometimes, doctors will recommend inserting arch
supports into shoes to reduce foot pain.
Toe Walking
Toe walking is common among toddlers as they learn to walk, especially during
the second year of life. The tendency often goes away by age 3, although it lasts
in some kids.
Occasional toe walking should not be cause for concern, but kids who walk
on their toes almost all the time and continue to do so after age 3 should see a doctor.
Persistent toe walking in older kids or toe walking only on one leg might be
linked to other conditions, such as cerebral palsy, muscle weakness disorders, autism,
or other nervous system problems.
If an otherwise healthy child has persistent toe walking, the doctor might recommend
a few visits with a physical therapists to learn stretching exercises. Once a child
is around age 4 or 5, casting the foot and ankle for about
6 weeks may be needed to help stretch the calf muscles.