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.
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.
Children may not always describe symptoms clearly, so parents often notice changes in walking, activity or footwear first. Common signs include:
A podiatry assessment considers your child’s growth stage, symptoms, foot posture, walking pattern, activity levels and footwear.
Observes walking and running, including foot and knee position.
Checks arch, heel and ankle alignment.
Age-appropriate balance, hopping and strength checks.
Size, weight, fastening and support.
GP, paediatrician, physiotherapist or occupational therapist when indicated.
Management is tailored to your child’s age, activity level, foot posture and goals.
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.
May be considered where foot posture and fatigue contribute.
Correct size, secure fastening and appropriate weight.
Age-appropriate strengthening and balance play.
Understanding normal development and what to watch.
Managing fatigue during long days or sport.
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.
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.
Some tripping is normal while children develop coordination. Tripping that is frequent, worsening or one-sided should be assessed.
Yes. When the feet turn in, they can catch on each other, especially when running or tired.
Orthoses are not a treatment for coordination, but may help when foot posture and fatigue contribute to tripping.
Correctly sized, lightweight shoes with secure laces or straps and a flexible forefoot are usually recommended.
We create a calm, supportive space to help children feel comfortable during assessment.
Where appropriate, prefabricated and custom foot orthoses are discussed based on assessment findings.
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.
