DS aged 2.5 seems too unsteady- any ideas?

[SarahOxon]

Hi, I feel a bit of a fraud on the SN board but not sure where to ask my question. My DS1 (now 2 and 9 months) was born 6 weeks premature. After 14 months he was signed off by the paeds as 'normal' if a bit small for his age. He was slow to walk but has been up and running for a year now. However, I've been watching him over the last few months and notice that compared to a lot of his friends he is much more unsteady. Whenever he runs (even for short stretches) he will eventually fall over. He cannot keep up with his peers either nor jump or climb as well as them. He appears pigeontoed (in fact he seems to trip himself up). GP suggested I visit a consultant but not sure if I am making a mountain out of a mole hill. Has anyone experienced this? Did it disappear or need further investigation?

You're doing the right thing by seeing a consultant. Often a mother's instincts are correct. If there is a problem, even just a small one, then it's a good idea to get it diagnosed and treated. I know a mum who point blank refuses to admit that there is a problem with her toddler, and she's not doing her toddler any favours by burying her head in the sand.

It could be that because he was slightly delayed in walking he is slightly delayed in the other balance issues BUT it could be something more that needs addressing and with some extra input can be improved. I would trust your instinct and push for some specialist consultation. It is really good that your GP has taken your seriously and suggested it so go for it. Meanwhile I would make sure that he has lots and lots of opportunities to practise all the physical skills. Really encourage him, praise and help him in trying new things. I am sure you are doing this but the more you can do the better

Thanks. I have been told it's 4 months to see an orthapaedist so am going to go private. Bit worried in case they say there's nothing they can do. Maybe more worried in case they do want to do something??! Because he's so unsteady, he always lags behind other kids and I feel so sorry for him. Also, he's nervous of many of the physical activities his peers undertake and doesn't even attempt them despite lots of encouragement (i.e. climbing up slides). I often wonder if he's got v.v.v. mild CP. Is this possible?

Hi Sarah, i may be totally off the mark and please dont think i know what im on about, but my brother had problems like this and he had a lazy eye, it meant his eyes didnt work properly together so his balance was off and he aleways waked into things aswell.
Whatever it is i hope you get it sorted quickly and good luck i hope he is fine x

Dear Sarah,
Did he walk early/late?
My daughter was diagnosed with Hypermobility Syndrome at 22 months and walked 4 days after receiving paedro boots. We went privately to speed things up. Good Luck.