Gait disorders in children can be caused by many different problems. Some conditions may resolve on their own during the developmental process, while others may require treatment. Wearing the wrong shoes or not paying attention to the child's gait can lead to orthopedic problems in later life.
Gait disorders in infants and children may include the following:
- Developmental hip dysplasia (hip dislocation)
- Leg length discrepancies
- Cerebral palsy
- Spina bifida
- Intoeing-outtoeing
- Flat feet
How to Recognize Gait Disorders in Infants
Recognizing walking disorders in infants early on helps ensure that treatment is started early and is successful. It is possible to determine whether there is a problem when infants begin to walk. Infants usually begin to walk between 9 and 18 months of age. A delay in this process and late walking may be a sign of a problem. A walking infant who cannot maintain balance and falls frequently, leans more to one side, uses one leg more than the other, does not place their heels flat on the ground and walks on their toes, has feet that turn inward or outward, or has a difference in the length of their feet or legs may be exhibiting signs of a walking disorder.
How is a walking disorder diagnosed in children?
When signs of walking disorders are noticed in children, a specialist should be consulted immediately. The doctor asks the family questions about the child and obtains information about the child's development process. The child's posture, gait, and the shape of their feet and legs are examined. It is investigated whether it is neurological in origin and can be examined with imaging tests. The type of walking disorder is diagnosed, and a treatment plan appropriate for the child's age and problem is made.
How is Walking Disorder Treated in Children?
How walking disorder is treated in children depends on the cause of the disorder. If the walking disorder is caused by trauma, the problem may disappear as the trauma heals. Walking disorders in children can occur due to many foot problems and diseases. Each of these problems requires different treatment methods. In most children, these problems improve on their own as they age without treatment. Not every walking problem requires foot orthotics or surgical treatment; walking barefoot and exercise are more commonly recommended.
Gait disorders in children are not limited to foot-related problems. When such a complaint is presented, the hip, knee, and leg are comprehensively evaluated. The source of the problem is determined, and treatment is applied accordingly. Medication may be effective in treating neurological walking disorders.
Hip dislocation is a problem that can cause walking disorders. When detected after birth in infants, it can be treated without surgery, using a brace. In infants where it is detected after 6 months or where treatment is planned, it can be treated with surgery under general anesthesia. Another example is cerebral palsy, a disease that prevents the brain from developing fully and causes movement and posture disorders.
Physical therapy and rehabilitation are important in the treatment of walking disorders in children. Physical therapy is a commonly used treatment to strengthen muscles and improve balance and coordination. Physical therapy specialists create exercise programs tailored to the child's needs. Regularly performed exercises can help improve the child's walking ability. Various orthotics, or walking aids, are used to help the child walk. These devices support joints such as the ankle, knee, or hip, enabling a more balanced and proper gait.