Funny feet
BY DORTE BLADT
Understanding In-Toeing in Toddlers: What’s Normal and When to Seek Advice
It’s common for parents to notice differences in the way their toddler walks. Some little ones seem to trip over nothing, scrape the tops of their toes or look a little “pigeon-toed.” These changes can feel worrying, especially when they appear suddenly or start causing discomfort.
Take Cooper, for example. At 18 months old, he refused shoes and socks because his toes were rubbing as he walked with his feet turned inward. His mum noticed he was falling often and began wondering if something more serious was going on.
Situations like this are incredibly common—and in many cases, part of typical development.
What Does Normal Leg and Foot Development Look Like?
As babies grow into toddlers, their legs and feet move through several natural alignment stages:
Bowed Legs (Genu Varum)
Bowed legs and in-toeing are commonly seen up to around 2–3 years of age.
A simple observation: if a toddler can stand with their ankles together and the space between the knees is no wider than an adult fist, this is often considered within normal limits for this age.
Knock-Knees (Genu Valgum)
Between 2–3 years, many children naturally transition into a more knock-kneed posture.
This usually resolves gradually by around 8–9 years of age.
These changes happen as muscles strengthen, balance improves and the nervous system becomes more coordinated.
Why Do Toddlers Fall So Much?
Falling is very normal in early walking stages—and not always due to foot posture.
Between 12–24 months, toddlers often:
Move quickly because they’re excited
Struggle to coordinate turning while running
Trip on rugs, uneven surfaces or their own feet
Take time to adjust to wearing shoes
By around age two, most children show more confidence with running, climbing and balancing. Those who are developing a little more slowly may take longer to reach this stage.
A sudden increase in falling in an otherwise confident walker can be worth checking.
Other Factors That May Influence Walking and Balance
In-toeing is just one part of the picture. If your child is tripping often, it may be helpful to consider:
1. Vision
Even slight changes in vision, depth perception or eye alignment can affect coordination.
2. Balance and Sensory Processing
The vestibular system (inner ear) and cerebellum (the brain’s coordination centre) play a big role in balance. If these systems are take a little longer to develop or process information differently, a child may appear unsteady.
3. Recent Falls or Head Bumps
A noticeable change in walking after a tumble may indicate they need a check-up.
4. Foot Shape
Some children are born with an inward-curved forefoot due to their position in the womb. This may become more noticeable once they begin walking.
5. Other Considerations
Developmental Dysplasia of the Hip (DDH)
Muscle tone differences
Primitive reflexes that are still active
These factors can influence posture, walking patterns and coordination.
How Chiropractic Care Fits Into the Picture
Many parents choose to have their toddler assessed by a chiropractor who works with children. At The Family Chiro a chiropractic consultation typically includes:
A thorough check of posture, gait and movement
Assessment of the spine, pelvis, cranium, hips and lower limbs
Age-appropriate, gentle techniques if areas of restriction or tension are found
Practical advice on shoes, play activities, balance development and ways to support age-appropriate movement
Chiropractic care for children uses very gentle approaches adapted to a child’s age and stage of development. While research continues to grow in this area, many parents find value in having someone who understands children’s biomechanics assess their child and provide guidance.
Reassurance for Parents
In-toeing and knock-knees are extremely common and often resolve naturally with time.
However, if you notice:
frequent falls that don’t improve
sudden changes in walking
avoidance of shoes
discomfort or friction on the toes
an unusual limp
or anything that feels “not quite right”
…trust your instincts. An assessment can help you understand whether your child is simply moving through a normal developmental phase or whether there are other factors worth exploring.
Your concerns are always valid, and support is available – at The Family Chiro we are always here to help.
Yours in Health,
Dorte and The Family Chiro Team
