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Related Experiment Video

Updated: Jun 10, 2026

Testing Sensory and Multisensory Function in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder

Testing Sensory and Multisensory Function in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder

Published on: April 22, 2015

Idiopathic toe walking and sensory processing dysfunction.

Cylie M Williams¹, Paul Tinley, Michael Curtin

¹Southern Health- Cardinia Casey Community Health Service, Locked Bag 2500, Cranbourne, VIC, 3977, Australia. cylie.williams@southernhealth.org.au.

Journal of Foot and Ankle Research

|August 18, 2010

Summary

Idiopathic toe walking (ITW) is a gait pattern often linked to sensory processing dysfunction (SPD). Current evidence is limited, with no confirmed relationship between ITW and SPD, warranting further investigation.

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Quantitative Assessment of Cortical Auditory-tactile Processing in Children with Disabilities

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Published on: January 29, 2014

Area of Science:

Neurology
Developmental Pediatrics
Gait Analysis

Background:

Idiopathic toe walking (ITW) is characterized by an absence or limitation of heel strike during gait.
While often idiopathic, ITW is increasingly debated as potentially linked to sensory processing dysfunction (SPD).
Existing research on the pathophysiology of ITW and its connection to SPD is limited.

Purpose of the Study:

To examine existing literature on the relationship between toe walking and sensory processing dysfunction.
To summarize current knowledge regarding the potential link between ITW and SPD.

Main Methods:

A review of 49 articles from peer-reviewed journals and five contemporary texts.
Literature included various styles such as clinical trials, case studies, and narrative reviews.
Articles were assessed and graded based on their level of evidence.

Main Results:

Only one small, uncontrolled prospective study specifically addressed ITW and sensory processing.
A cross-sectional study suggested sensory processing as a potential reason for ITW prevalence.
Four contemporary texts and one conference abstract proposed a link between ITW and SPD.

Conclusions:

The relationship between idiopathic toe walking and sensory processing dysfunction is not yet confirmed due to limited conclusive evidence.
The paucity and nature of studies, alongside anecdotal evidence, suggest that further research into this relationship is warranted.