What is Gait Abnormality?

Gait abnormality refers to an unusual way of walking. If your child’s walk doesn’t seem right, it could be a sign of an underlying issue. While all children develop walking skills at different speeds, some kids have trouble with balance, movement, or coordination. If this happens, it can be a sign of pediatric gait abnormalities​ , and you need to get help early.

Abnormal Pediatric Gait Symptoms

Recognizing abnormal gait in children can be tricky. No worries! Here are some of the most common symptoms of pediatric gait abnormalities​ mentioned by pediatric podiatrist Phoenix:

• Toe walking past age 3, a possible sign of a problem.
• Limping due to leg weakness or pain.
• Waddling gait, often linked to hip or leg issues.
• Frequent tripping or falling, indicating balance or coordination problems.
• Unsteady walk, possible sign of balance or coordination issues.
• Feet turning in or out, often related to leg or muscle problems.
• Shortened stride, possibly from muscle weakness or leg pain.

Types of Pediatric Gait Abnormalities

Many types of gait issues affect children. Each type has different causes and signs. Let’s look at the most common pediatric gait abnormalities​.

Toe Walking

Toe-walking happens when a child walks on their toes instead of using the whole foot. It is very common in toddlers. However, if this continues after age 3 or 4, it could signal a muscle or nerve issue. In some cases, it might be linked to cerebral palsy or sensory processing problems.

Waddling Gait

A waddling gait is when a child walks with their hips moving side to side. This can happen if there is muscle weakness in the legs or hips. It’s sometimes due to hip dysplasia, which is a condition where the child’s hip joint doesn’t develop properly.

Antalgic Gait (Limping)

Pediatric podiatrists Mesa call the child limping often an antalgic gait. This happens when the child avoids putting weight on one leg due to pain or discomfort. A limp can be a result of an injury or infection in the foot or leg or even something like growing pains.

Cerebellar Gait

Cerebellar gait happens when a child’s movements are unsteady. This can be due to issues in the cerebellum, the brain part that controls balance. Kids with this type of gait may appear wobbly or shaky while walking.

Spastic Gait

A spastic gait happens when the muscles in the legs are stiff. The child’s walk may appear jerky or rigid. This is often seen in kids with cerebral palsy or other neurological conditions.

Flatfooted Gait (Pes Planus)

Children with flat feet have a foot arch that doesn’t rise, causing the foot to roll inward. This is called pes planus, and it can make walking harder and lead to pain or discomfort.

In-Toeing/Out-Toeing

In-toeing happens when a child walks with their feet turned inward. Out-toeing is when the feet point outward. These conditions can be caused by problems with the bones or muscles in the legs or hips.

What Causes Pediatric Gait Abnormalities?

Pediatric gait abnormalities​ have many different causes. Let’s look at the most common ones mentioned by pediatric podiatrist Gilbert:

• Weak muscles in the legs or feet which can change how your child walks.
• Conditions like cerebral palsy which can affect coordination and balance.
• Problems with bones or joints, like hip dysplasia, which can cause abnormal walking.
• Injuries to the legs, feet, or spine which can lead to limping or walking problems.
• Genetic issues, like muscular dystrophy, which can make walking difficult.

Note: Some children take longer to walk or run. This can cause temporary gait problems.

How Are Gait Abnormalities Diagnosed?

If you notice your child has pediatric gait abnormalities​, a pediatric podiatrist Scottsdale can help figure out what’s going on. The physician or doctor will usually perform a series of tests, including:

• A doctor will watch how your child walks and looks at their feet and legs for any signs of problems. They will check the muscles and joints to see if everything is working correctly.
• The doctor or physician will ask about your child’s medical history, including any past injuries, conditions, or family history of foot or leg problems.
• A doctor may want to perform a gait analysis. This is a test that records how your child walks and looks at their movement in more detail.
• The doctor may suggest X-rays, MRIs, or CT scans to rule out bone or joint problems. These tests help to see if there are any issues with the bones or joints.
• If the issue is more complex, the doctor may refer you to other specialists.

How Are Pediatric Gait Abnormalities Treated?

The pediatric gait abnormalities​ therapies depend on the cause of the issue. Here are some common treatment options recommended by pediatric podiatrists Chandler:

Physical Therapy

Physical therapy is often the first step. A physical therapist will work with your child to strengthen muscles, improve balance, and correct their walking pattern. Exercises might focus on building strength in the legs or stretching tight muscles.

Orthotics

Custom shoe inserts (orthotics) can help correct issues with the feet, such as flat feet or misalignment. These inserts can help your child walk more comfortably.

Braces or Splints

Sometimes, children need braces or splints to help support weak muscles or joints. These devices help stabilize the legs and improve walking posture.

Surgery

In more severe cases, your child may need surgery. This might be necessary if there’s a bone deformity, joint problem, or other serious condition that can’t be fixed with less invasive treatments.

Medication

If your child is in pain, your doctor might suggest medication to reduce inflammation and make walking more comfortable.

Observation

Some children grow out of their gait issues, and in these cases, simply watching and waiting may be enough. If the problem doesn’t improve or worsens, you can explore other treatment options.

Pediatric Gait Abnormalities Treatments in Phoenix, Arizona

At Foot and Ankle Specialty Centers in Phoenix, AZ, we specialize in diagnosing and treating pediatric gait abnormalities. Our expert podiatrists understand how important it is for your child to walk comfortably and confidently. So, if your child needs physical therapy, custom orthotics, or more advanced treatments, we work with you to find the best solution for your child. Call us today at (480) 812-3668 to schedule an appointment and get the care your child deserves.

The Bottom Line

Gait abnormalities in children are concerning, but the good news is they are often treatable. Early diagnosis and treatment are key to ensuring your child’s walk improves. If you notice any of the pediatric gait abnormalities signs, don’t wait. Reach out to a foot specialist who can guide you through the next steps.