9MO DS referred to physio WWYD

[Emarosa]

Our wonderful 9MO DS went for his 10 month developmental review this week. He’s doing really well, so I didn’t think very much of it. However, during the meeting I asked for advice on how to get him to stand with a flatter foot. He is always on his tiptoes.

The health worker tried to flatten his foot while he stood, but wasn’t able to. She has therefore referred him to physio but warned we’re unlikely to get an appointment for at least 5 months.

I’m worried about it and that feels like a long wait. Has anyone had a similar problem and possibly any tips for exercises we could try at home? I’ve had a look at private physios too, but I’ve struggled to find one that seems to work on that sort of issue.

WWYD?

The Physiotherapy service will hopefully triage anyway so hopefully, you may be seen before the 5 month mark.

Did the assessment flag up any other concerns?

Get him to squat as much as he can to pick toys up with his foot flat to stretch the back for his leg.

Thank you both.
No other concerns. I was a bit surprised they made the referral as I thought tiptoe walking was quite common at that age. Worrying now though!

Get him a private physio to review him head to toe

My LO was referred to physio at his one year review and it did take 5 months. 6 weeks after his appointment he was walking like there was never anything wrong. I wouldn't stress OP

Does he use a walker or push toys?

He doesn’t have a walker, but he regularly takes steps while we hold his hands and there are lots of low surfaces that he holds himself up on.
Should we get one?

My DD (now 15 months) was walking on tiptoes with her walker. I worried about it. As soon as she started ‘toddling’ more, at around 13 months, her feet went flat. They aren’t silly, and they recognise the best way to get around (and avoid painful calves!).

Wait until he’s walking more confidently. Then see how it goes :)

Thank you! That’s reassuring!
I hadn’t thought much of it before and assumed they’d go flat as he grows, but the referral has worried me.

She’s probably just referred early just in case as she knows it’s a long wait

A walker or push toy will encourage tippy toes walking because the body is slightly inclined. Great that she doesn't have one.
Instead of encouraging her walking by holding her hands whilst you are standing. Squat in from of her and hold her hands from there and walk backward in a squat position .