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Still on tiptoes?
Know what's typical, and what to do next
Toe walking in children
Many toddlers walk on their toes while they're learning, and most come down onto their heels with time. It's worth a check if your child still mostly toe walks after about age 2 to 3, can't put their heels down when asked, toe walks on one side only, or trips and falls a lot.
How we can help at Burwood Podiatry
Most toe walking has a simple explanation, and we'll help you know what to do next.
- A thorough check of calf and Achilles flexibility, balance, walking and shoes
- Clear reassurance when it's typical for their age, with what to watch for
- A play-based stretching and balance plan you can do together at home: strength and rehab
- Regular reviews to check the heels are coming down
- A letter to your GP if tightness isn't improving or anything needs a doctor, who can refer to a paediatrician or children's orthopaedic team
What you can do at home
- Heel-walking games, such as walking like a penguin, and barefoot play on safe surfaces
- Daily calf stretches once we've shown you how, each held for about 30 seconds
- Balance games: standing on one leg, and walking heel to toe along a line
- A short video of your child walking every few months, so you can see any change
- Unsure whether to book? See the signs worth a check: when should a child see a podiatrist?
When to get it checked
- Toe walking most of the time after about age 2 to 3
- Your child can't stand with their heels flat on the ground
- Toe walking on one side only
- Frequent tripping or falling, or difficulty walking or running
- Toe walking alongside other concerns about their development: see your GP too
What causes toe walking?
Often there's no known cause. This is called idiopathic toe walking, and the child can usually put their heels down when asked. Tight calf muscles can contribute. Less often, toe walking is linked to a neurological or developmental condition, which is why toe walking that persists is worth a check.
Toe walking that starts suddenly after an injury, or with leg pain, fever or loss of skills? See your GP promptly. Emergency, or a foot that suddenly turns cold, pale or blue? Call 000.
Toe walking questions
My child still walks on tiptoes: should I worry?
Many toddlers toe walk while learning and come down onto their heels with time. It's worth a check if your child mostly toe walks after about age 2 to 3, can't put their heels down when asked, toe walks on one side only, or trips and falls a lot.
Is toe walking normal?
In toddlers who are learning to walk, often yes. Most children come down onto their heels with time. Toe walking most of the time after about age 2 to 3 is worth a check.
Will my child grow out of toe walking?
Many do. Stretching and play-based activities can help, and we'll tell you what to watch for. If it isn't improving, other options such as splints or casting are managed through your GP and a children's specialist.
Do special shoes stop toe walking?
Shoes alone don't usually change toe walking. Supportive, well-fitting shoes are still worthwhile, and we'll check what your child wears.
How much is an appointment for my child?
A 30-minute appointment is $112 with Jasem, or $162 with Jonathan ($179 on Saturdays). No referral needed. If your child has a chronic condition and a GP care plan, Medicare pays $63.40 back per eligible visit. Fees and rebates
Where to next
Sources
Reviewed by Burwood Podiatry · November 2026