Tip toeing

Toe walking, sometimes called tiptoeing, is when an infant or young child consistently walks or stands on the balls of their feet without the heel making full contact with the ground.

In very young children, occasional toe walking can be part of normal development as they explore movement. However, persistent toe walking beyond expected developmental stages may be associated with:

●     Muscle tightness in the calves (gastrocnemius and soleus)

●     Sensory processing differences

●     Habitual movement patterns

●     Neuromuscular or developmental conditions (in some cases)

Early assessment is important if toe walking is persistent or asymmetrical.

Infant massage is not a treatment for toe walking, but it can be used as a supportive therapy to help reduce muscle tension and encourage more balanced movement patterns when combined with appropriate medical or physiotherapy care.

It may help:

●     Reduce tightness in the calf muscles

●     Improve circulation in the lower legs and feet

●     Support relaxation of the posterior chain (legs and back)

●     Increase body awareness and sensory integration

●     Encourage more comfortable weight distribution through the feet