Many changes in children's feet and walking patterns are a normal part of growth. However, some patterns may benefit from assessment, especially if they are affecting comfort, activity, or confidence.
Many changes in children's feet, posture, and walking are normal during growth. It may be worth seeking advice if your child has pain, limps, trips often, avoids activity, or if the pattern is getting worse rather than improving.
A podiatry assessment can help explain whether the concern is likely part of development or whether footwear, exercises, monitoring, or treatment may be helpful.
If you're unsure what you're seeing, you can start by exploring the concern that sounds closest to your child, or view an overview of common issues on our children's feet page.
Flat feet
My child has low or flat arches.
In-toeing
My child's feet turn inward when walking.
Toe walking
My child walks on their toes rather than their whole foot.
Heel or foot pain
My child complains of pain in their heel or foot.
Growing pains
My child has aching in their legs or feet, often at night.
Plantar warts
My child has a wart or hard lump on the sole of their foot.
Ingrown toenails
My child has a sore, red, or swollen toe around the nail.
Not sure / warning signs
I want to know what signs are worth acting on sooner.
If you're still unsure, you can learn more about when a podiatry assessment may help, or find out what to expect at a first appointment.
You are welcome to message us or call our team if you have a question about your child's feet.
Yes, many changes in foot posture and walking patterns are part of normal development. These often improve naturally as children grow.
It may be worth getting checked if your child has pain, limps, trips often, avoids activity, or if the pattern is getting worse rather than improving.
No, many children do not need treatment. Advice depends on symptoms, function, and how the child is developing. You can read more about flat feet and in-toeing separately.
A podiatrist will assess walking pattern, foot posture, and development, and explain whether the concern is likely part of normal growth or if any guidance may help. You can also read what to expect at a first appointment.