In this age group a child should be developing a more steady and confident walking.
The bow legs posture should be normal by 3years of age.
The child should be able to alternate feet while climbing upstairs, kicking a ball, pedal atricycle,climb and hop on one foot.
A child may exhibit signs of “toe walking”. It is not uncommon in 2 and 3 year olds, but normal heel-strike should be demonstrated by the age of 4. Most commonly it is from weak muscles as part of their normal growth phase.
WHAT IS ABNORMAL?
If “ Toe-walking” is present between 3-4, it is advisable to have the child
assessed by a podiatrist or other qualified health professional as this condition
may be due toMuscle imbalanceOr may be related to a neurological disorder.
Another common problem is of an “in-toeing or pigeon toe” gait style. It is important to
note what part of the leg the internal rotation is coming from. Have your child stand in
front of you in their underwear in a relaxed position.
> If the Knees point straight or outwards and the lower legs and feet point inwards,
your child needs to be seen before 4 years old.
> If the knees rotate inwards, this indicates it is from the hips and will probably self
correct with age
If not sure seek qualified and experienced advice.
Ages 4-6 years
WHAT IS NORMAL?
A child of this age may have an appearance of knock-knees. If this doesn’t
resolve by the age of 7 years it may continue into adult life. Therefore an
assessment by a suitable health professional is advised.
As part of this, (as noted above), there may be an internal rotation of the legs from
the hips. This can especially happen through a growth phase as the hamstring
muscles become tight and as a result internally rotate the legs on the hips
WHAT IS ABNORMAL?
If a child is still demonstrating structurally “flat feet” at the age of 4 –5 then this should be assessed by a podiatrist.
Structural problems such as abnormally joined bones may be present, so tests such as radiographs may be indicated.
Keep in mind that early diagnosis often means early treatment.
If the arch of your child’s foot collapses while standing this also needs addressing. A common problem can be a “flexible flat-foot”. This pathology is often congenital, arising from a variety of causes and is easily identified by a gait analysis by your podiatrist.
Treatment can include, stretching and strengthening of muscles, exercise modification and orthoses.
Ages 6-12 Years
WHAT IS NORMAL?
A child of this age should be growing out of the knock-knee posture by 7 years old.
Sudden growth phases or spurts can lead to unusual walking patterns and postures.
This, while understandable taking into account the resultant tight and weak muscles, does
increase the risk of injuries occurring.
WHAT IS ABNORMAL?
If a child is still demonstrating structurally “flat feet” at the age of 4 –5 then a podiatrist should assess their structure and function.
Structural problems such as abnormally joined bones may be present, so tests such as radiographs may be indicated.
Keep in mind that early diagnosis often means early treatment.
If the arch of your child’s foot collapses while standing this also needs addressing. A common problem can be a “flexible flat-foot”. This pathology is often congenital, arising from a variety of causes and is easily identified by a gait analysis by your podiatrist.
Treatment can include, stretching and strengthening of muscles, exercise modification and orthoses.
