The Cause of Finger-Tip Walking in Children Should Be Investigated

Fingertip walking is quite common in children who are just starting to walk. However, if this situation continues for a long time, it invites many health problems.

Underlining that the child should switch to a normal walking pattern until the age of two at the latest, Romatem Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Hospital Pediatric Physiotherapist Şehnaz Yüce said, “Fingertip walking disrupts the proper body posture, it causes hardening and shortening of some muscles, elongation and weakness in others. Since the front part of the foot carries all the weight of the body, this area expands and the articular structures deteriorate. Due to these problems in the foot, ankle, knee, hip and spine, pain begins to occur over time. Therefore, early intervention is of great importance, as the family observes the child well ”.

While every parent eagerly awaits their children to walk, they can ignore some points. While most children begin to walk with their feet flat on the ground when they are 12 to 14 months old, some babies take their first steps by walking only by keeping the toes touching the ground without touching the soles and heels of the ground. Finger tip walking normally should disappear within three to six months after learning to walk, but if it takes a long time, it is necessary to consult a specialist.

The Cause of Finger Tip Walking Should Be Investigated

Romatem Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Hospital Pediatric Physiotherapist Şehnaz Yüce, who pointed out that the fingertip gait is likely to be seen in approximately 10 percent of children who are born normally and have no problems. During pregnancy, muscle shortness may occur due to the position of the baby, due to a genetic problem, muscle shortness may have occurred during pregnancy. If a neurological problem occurs due to or after preterm birth, it may cause fingertip pressure. Putting the child on a walker before or during the walking stage can also trigger fingertip walking. At the same time, autism and mental problems can improve this situation, ”he said.

Early Intervention is of Great Importance

Yüce continued his words as follows: “After finding the cause of the problem, a treatment program is created depending on the diagnosis. Positioning, stretching exercises, shoes, orthoses can be used. If these treatment methods are not sufficient, muscle lengthening operations can be performed by considering a surgical solution. If the problem is neurological, there may be botox applications before surgical interventions. Early diagnosis is of great importance. Families often think about this problem temporarily. "