Bracing
Shriners Children's multidisciplinary team includes orthotists who create braces to meet the individual need of each child – whether to treat a complex condition or common injury.
Toe-Walking
Toe-walking is common in toddlers, and typically children outgrow it. Our physicians are here to help evaluate your toe-walker, and decide if it is time to take a closer look.
Toe-walking is a condition when a child walks on the balls of his or her feet, without their heels making contact with the ground. This looks similar to standing on your “tiptoes.” While this habit is quite normal for those learning to walk, children who show signs of the condition beyond the age of three may need further treatment. Early diagnosis is key, as toe-walking beyond toddler age could be an indicator of other underlying neuromuscular problems.
Our orthopedic specialists are here to provide your child with a complete assessment that help determine why they walk the way they do and if there is any reason for concern. They will start with a physical exam that will assess the child’s gait, muscle tone and range of motion.
Most often, children will stop toe-walking on their own without any need for additional intervention. Sometimes kids walk on their toes simply because it is their preference of walking style. When no known medical reason for toe-walking is identified and is considered to be more behavioral, that is called idiopathic toe walking.
If our team identifies any issues with your child’s gait and treatment is necessary, a child may undergo physical therapy, bracing, splinting, serial casting or surgery.
Specific treatments and services may vary by location. Please contact a specific location for more information.
The staff are always awesome, kind, caring, friendly, they listen to your concerns, and most of all professional. We travel 10 hours from South Dakota and always feel welcome at her appointments.
Pediatric Orthotic and Prosthetic Services (POPS)
Shriners Children’s Pediatric Orthotic and Prosthetic Services designs, fits and manufactures customized braces for children who need treatment for toe walking.
Innovative Treatments
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Casting
Shriners Children's care team specializes in putting children at ease during casting, a common treatment for fractures.
Orthopedic Surgery
With their expertise in treating children from toddlers to teens, the pediatric orthopedic surgeons at Shriners Children’s understand the challenges of planning ahead for growing bones and bodies.
Physical Therapy
Physical therapy at Shriners Children's helps children build confidence and strength, focusing on what is important to them and what they love to do in their daily lives.
Serial Casting
When a joint is unable to extend or flex, one of the connected muscles may be too tight or too short. To assist in turning the joint in the correct direction, Shriners Children's orthopedic specialists offer serial casting.
Conditions Children Tend to Grow Out Of
Next Steps
Request an Appointment
Families and caregivers seeking treatment should start by contacting us for an appointment.
Log in to the Patient Portal
Parents and guardians of existing patients can email, request records, schedule appointments and more.
Refer a Patient
Physicians and healthcare providers can request appointments, start transfers or contact us with questions.