Frequent Tripping in Children
Tripping is a normal part of learning to walk and run, but some children seem to trip or fall more than others. This page outlines common reasons children trip, signs that warrant medical review, and how a podiatry gait assessment, footwear and orthotic therapy may help.
What Is Frequent Tripping in Children?
Young children are still developing balance, coordination and strength, so some tripping is expected, especially when they are tired or running quickly. Tripping often reduces as coordination matures.
Some children trip more often due to walking patterns such as in-toeing, where the feet catch on each other, or foot posture such as flat feet and hypermobile feet, which can lead to fatigue. Footwear that is too big, too heavy or poorly fastened can also contribute.
A podiatry assessment looks at walking and running, foot posture, strength and footwear. Depending on the findings, management may include footwear changes, strengthening and balance activities and, where foot posture contributes to symptoms, orthotic therapy.
Signs & Symptoms of Frequent Tripping in Kids
Children may not always describe symptoms clearly, so parents often notice changes in walking, activity or footwear first. Common signs include:
- Tripping or falling more often than peers
- Feet catching on each other or on the ground
- Tiring quickly and tripping more later in the day
- Feet pointing inwards or outwards when walking
- Reluctance to run or join in active play
Common Contributing Factors
- In-toeing from femoral or tibial rotation
- Flexible flat feet or hypermobility causing fatigue
- Developing balance and coordination
- Ill-fitting, heavy or loose footwear
- Less commonly, muscle, nerve or developmental conditions that need medical assessment
How Frequent Tripping Is Assessed
A podiatry assessment considers your child’s growth stage, symptoms, foot posture, walking pattern, activity levels and footwear.
Gait & Walking Analysis
Observes walking and running, including foot and knee position.
Foot Posture Assessment
Checks arch, heel and ankle alignment.
Balance & Strength Screen
Age-appropriate balance, hopping and strength checks.
Footwear Assessment
Size, weight, fastening and support.
Referral (if needed)
GP, paediatrician, physiotherapist or occupational therapist when indicated.
Orthotic Therapy & Management for Frequent Tripping
Management is tailored to your child’s age, activity level, foot posture and goals.
How Orthotic Therapy May Help
Orthoses do not change bony rotation or teach coordination. However, where tripping is associated with foot posture and fatigue, such as in flexible flat feet or hypermobility, orthotic therapy may be considered to support the foot and improve comfort and endurance during activity.
Well-fitted, supportive footwear is often just as important, and orthoses are always considered alongside strength and balance activities.
- Supportive paediatric orthoses where foot posture contributes
- Correctly sized, lightweight footwear with secure fastening
- Balance and coordination activities
- Regular review as your child develops
Orthotic Therapy
May be considered where foot posture and fatigue contribute.
Footwear Planning
Correct size, secure fastening and appropriate weight.
Strength & Balance
Age-appropriate strengthening and balance play.
Education & Monitoring
Understanding normal development and what to watch.
Activity Pacing
Managing fatigue during long days or sport.
Coordinated Referral
Working with GPs and allied health professionals where needed.
Learn more about orthotic therapy, strengthening, stretching and strapping, or view all treatments. Related kids conditions include in-toeing, out-toeing, flat feet, hypermobile feet, foot fatigue in sport.
When to Seek Assessment
If your child is tripping much more than peers, tiring very quickly or avoiding activity, an assessment can help identify contributing factors.
Please see your GP promptly if tripping starts suddenly, is getting worse, affects one side, or occurs with weakness, pain, toe walking, loss of skills your child previously had, or delayed milestones.
Frequent Tripping in Children – Frequently Asked Questions
Is it normal for my child to trip a lot?
Some tripping is normal while children develop coordination. Tripping that is frequent, worsening or one-sided should be assessed.
Can in-toeing cause tripping?
Yes. When the feet turn in, they can catch on each other, especially when running or tired.
Will orthotics stop my child tripping?
Orthoses are not a treatment for coordination, but may help when foot posture and fatigue contribute to tripping.
Which shoes help a child who trips often?
Correctly sized, lightweight shoes with secure laces or straps and a flexible forefoot are usually recommended.
Kids Podiatry for Frequent Tripping in Bankstown
Kid-Friendly Environment
We create a calm, supportive space to help children feel comfortable during assessment.
Orthotic Therapy Options
Where appropriate, prefabricated and custom foot orthoses are discussed based on assessment findings.
Parent-Focused Guidance
We help parents understand what is normal, what may need monitoring, and what can be supported.
Our clinic is located at 1/50 Kitchener Parade, Bankstown, and sees families from across Sydney, including Bankstown, Condell Park, Padstow, Revesby, Lakemba and Belmore. Visit our children’s podiatry page for more kids foot conditions, read about our clinic, or contact the clinic to make an appointment enquiry.
This information is general in nature and is not a substitute for individual assessment and advice. Outcomes vary between children. If you are concerned about your child’s health, please consult your GP or a registered health practitioner.
