Should I be worried about my child’s feet turning in or outward during walking? Typically most orthopedists are not concerned about variations in walking until almost 3 years old. The most important thing to watch for is that it is happening on both sides. It is not uncommon for toddlers to turn their feet inwards or outwards in the first 3-4 months after walking begins. It helps with balance. As they begin to strengthen the large muscle groups in their legs and spend more time upright, they will become more proficient walkers!
When your Mainstreet Providers start to get concerned is when it persists only on one side. Even more important is if there is a hip concern (especially a history of dysplasia or breech in utero), pain with walking, limping, or balance concerns related to it. As always though, if you have any concerns about your child’s walk be sure to talk about it with your Mainstreet Pediatrics Provider!
