Commonly defined as the ability to take a minimum of 5 steps unaided
The World Health Organisation (WHO) reports 1st to 99th percentile ranges for the age of independent walking as 8.2 months to 17.6 months with mean at 13-14 months of age
Gait Maturation
There are changes in cadence (step rate or steps per minute), stability, base of support and energy efficiency across the early years
Walking speed, step length and single-limb stance increase with age whereas number of steps per minute (cadence) decreases
Mature gait is established by 8 years of age in healthy, neurotypical children
Limping
Limping is defined as: A) An asymmetric gait AND B) A deviation from the normal gait pattern expected for a child’s age
A limp is a significant finding and commonly due to pain, weakness or deformity
Can be due to a variety of causes varying from benign (common) to potentially life threatening (rare)
When to see a Physio?
Not all limping children present with pain
All limping children should be reviewed by a Physiotherapist or medical professional
All limping toddlers need a medical review
Understanding when to refer to medical colleagues for extra testing such as blood tests and imaging is essential.
