Leg and Gait Development 

Leg and gait development is an important part of a child’s overall motor skills, affecting how they walk, run, and participate in play, sport, and everyday activities. Children may present with differences in leg alignment, foot position, or walking patterns, which can influence balance, coordination, and confidence. 

Common gait and leg differences 

Some children may present with: 

• In-toeing (pigeon-toed) or out-toeing 

• Toe-walking, either occasional or persistent 

• Knock knees (genu valgum) or bow legs (genu varum) 

• Differences in hip or knee alignment 

• Altered walking patterns due to fatigue, weakness, or coordination difficulties 

• Lower limb issues related to hip dysplasia or talipes (clubfoot) 

These differences are relatively common in childhood and may be a normal variation of development. However, in some cases, they may affect balance, coordination, participation in PE or sport, or cause discomfort, and early assessment can be helpful. 

What can affect gait? 

A child’s walking pattern and leg development can be influenced by a variety of factors, including: 

• Muscle strength and flexibility 

• Joint range of motion and alignment 

• Balance, coordination, and motor control 

• Sensory processing and proprioception 

• Habitual patterns of movement 

• Recovery from injury, surgery, or orthopaedic conditions 

Understanding the underlying factors is important to determine whether intervention is helpful, and what form it should take. 

How physiotherapy can help 

Physiotherapy can support children with leg or gait differences by: 

• Assessing movement patterns and identifying contributing factors 

• Improving strength, flexibility, and alignment 

• Supporting balance, coordination, and postural control 

• Guiding safe, age-appropriate activity and play 

• Providing strategies to support walking, running, and participation in sport or daily life 

• Advising on orthoses or equipment where appropriate, in collaboration with medical or orthopaedic teams 

Therapy is tailored to each child, aiming to support safe, confident, and functional movement, rather than simply focusing on “correcting” appearance. Early intervention can help prevent pain, reduce falls, and support a child’s confidence and participation in movement. 

When to seek advice 

If you notice persistent toe-walking, unusual foot or leg positions, frequent tripping, fatigue with walking, or difficulties participating in PE or play, a physiotherapy assessment can help clarify whether support is needed and what strategies may be beneficial. 

📩 Please get in touch to discuss your concerns or to arrange an assessment.