Toe Walking, In-Toeing and W-Sitting: Common Questions About Kids' Feet

Parents often ask us about the way their children walk, stand and sit. Many of these patterns are a normal part of development that children grow out of, but some are worth having checked. Here are the questions we hear most.

My child walks on their toes. Is that normal?

Toe walking is common when children first learn to walk. Most settle into a heel-to-toe pattern by about age two or three. Toe walking that continues after three, happens most of the time, or comes with tight calves, clumsiness or delays in other areas is worth having assessed. Treatment, when needed, usually involves stretching, strengthening and sometimes footwear changes or orthoses.

My child’s feet turn in. Will they grow out of it?

In-toeing is very common in young children and usually comes from the shape of the thigh bone, shin bone or foot, all of which change as children grow. Most in-toeing improves on its own by about age eight to ten, without special shoes or braces. Have it checked if it is getting worse, affects one side only, causes frequent tripping or pain, or is still marked after about age eight.

Should I stop my child W-sitting?

W-sitting is sitting on the bottom with the knees bent and the feet out to each side, making a W shape. Many young children sit this way because it is stable and comfortable, especially if they have flexible joints. There is little evidence that it causes problems on its own, but it can go along with in-toeing or weak core and hip muscles. Encouraging a mix of positions, like cross-legged, side-sitting and sitting on a low stool, is sensible.

My toddler has flat feet. Should I worry?

No. Almost all toddlers have flat-looking feet, because the arch develops gradually through early childhood. Flexible flat feet that don’t hurt usually need no treatment. Have them checked if they are painful, stiff, or very different on one side.

When to see a podiatrist

• Pain in the feet, legs or knees
• Frequent tripping or falling, or avoiding activity
• One side looking or moving differently
• Patterns that are getting worse rather than better

Our podiatrists at Shellharbour Village and Shellharbour City assess children’s development, walking and footwear and will often simply reassure you. See our children’s podiatry service or contact us to book.