A Pilot Study of Idiopathic Toe Walking: Measures and Outcomes

Abstract

This pilot study sought to determine the feasibility of quantifying sensory processing, postural control, motor skill development and participation in daily life in children with idiopathic toe walking (ITW) compared to children without ITW. A nonrandomized, prospective case-control design was employed. Twenty participants were recruited. Computerized weight bearing and postural control data was successfully collected. Differences were found in forefoot/rearfoot weight bearing, balance, sensory-motor abilities and parent reported participation challenges. Sensory processing results were inconclusive. Findings can inform standardized assessment and treatment of ITW.

Keywords:

• toe walking
• sensory processing
• balance

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.

Additional information

Funding

The author(s) reported there is no funding associated with the work featured in this article.

Notes on contributors

Debra Hines

Debra Hines is an occupational therapist in pediatric private practice and an Adjunct Faculty at Northern Arizona University. She has over 45 years of clinical pediatric experience in outpatient, home health, and school-based practice as well as 36 years as a private practice owner. She specializes in treating children with neurodevelopmental disorders. Her research interests include the impact of motor and sensory deficits on occupational performance and family participation. She has presented at both the state and national conferences. In 2020 she was inducted into the AOTA Roster of Fellows for advancing occupational therapy through advocacy and mentorship.

Amy Armstrong-Heimsoth

Amy Armstrong-Heimsoth, OTD, OTR/L, BCP is Department Chair & Associate Clinical Professor at Northern Arizona University in the occupational therapy department. She also serves as academic mentor for the University of South Florida in the Institute of Translational Research Education. She has over 26 years in pediatric practice and over 9 in academia. She won the Occupational Therapist of the Year award in 2018 from ArizOTA.

Sarah A. Schoen

Sarah A. Schoen, PhD, OTR, is Director of Research at the STAR Institute. Dr. Schoen is an Occupational Therapist with over 35 years of clinical experience and a doctorate in Occupational Therapy from New York University (2001). She is also an Associate Professor at the Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions. Dr Schoen is a co-author of the Sensory Processing Three Dimensions Scale. She is nationally recognized for her research, educational programs and clinical expertise. In 1997, Dr. Schoen received the Recognition of Achievement Award from AOTA, the Virginia Scardina Award of Excellence in 2011 and the A. Jean Ayres Award in 2022.