Related Experiment Video

Updated: Jun 4, 2026

Inchworming: A Novel Motor Stereotypy in the BTBR T+ Itpr3tf/J Mouse Model of Autism
08:03

Inchworming: A Novel Motor Stereotypy in the BTBR T+ Itpr3tf/J Mouse Model of Autism

Published on: July 5, 2014

Persistent toe walking in autism

William J Barrow1, Margie Jaworski, Pasquale J Accardo

  • 1Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia 32320, USA.

Journal of Child Neurology
|February 3, 2011
PubMed

Insights

Persistent toe walking is more common in children with autistic spectrum disorder. This finding highlights potential orthopedic complications in managing autism and related language disorders.

Area of Science:

  • Developmental Pediatrics
  • Orthopedics
  • Neurodevelopmental Disorders

Background:

  • Persistent toe walking is a common gait abnormality in children.
  • Autistic spectrum disorder (ASD) and Asperger syndrome are neurodevelopmental conditions.
  • The relationship between toe walking and specific neurodevelopmental disorders requires further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To determine the prevalence of persistent toe walking and tight heel cords in ambulatory children.
  • To investigate the association between toe walking and autistic spectrum disorder, including Asperger syndrome.
  • To explore potential orthopedic complications in children with these conditions.

Main Methods:

  • Retrospective review of medical records from 954 ambulatory children.
  • Data collection on persistent toe walking and tight heel cords.
  • Comparison of prevalence rates between children with ASD, Asperger syndrome, and the general pediatric population.

Main Results:

  • Prevalence of persistent toe walking was 20.1% and tight heel cords was 12.0% in children with autistic spectrum disorder.
  • Lower incidence rates (10.0% toe walking, 3.0% tight heel cords) were observed in children with Asperger syndrome.
  • These findings confirm a higher incidence of toe walking in children with autism and language disorders.

Conclusions:

  • Persistent toe walking and tight heel cords are more prevalent in children with autistic spectrum disorder.
  • The findings suggest a potential link between neurodevelopmental disorders and orthopedic issues.
  • Early identification and management of orthopedic deformities may be crucial for long-term care of these patients.

More Related Videos

Asymmetric Walkway: A Novel Behavioral Assay for Studying Asymmetric Locomotion08:19

Asymmetric Walkway: A Novel Behavioral Assay for Studying Asymmetric Locomotion

Published on: January 15, 2016

Related Concept Videos

Autism Spectrum Disorder01:19

Autism Spectrum Disorder

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition marked by persistent deficits in social communication and interaction alongside restrictive and repetitive behaviors or interests. ASD is sometimes accompanied by intellectual impairment.
These core symptoms manifest differently among individuals, ranging from mild to severe. The disorder's complexity extends beyond its clinical presentation, encompassing a diverse range of biological, cognitive, and sociocultural influences.
Modeling in Therapy01:26

Modeling in Therapy

Modeling, a key technique in therapy, uses observational learning to help clients acquire and practice new skills by watching therapists demonstrate desired behaviors. This approach, rooted in Albert Bandura's concept of vicarious learning, plays a significant role in therapeutic interventions for various psychological conditions, including social anxiety, ADHD, and depression.
Participant Modeling
Participant modeling involves therapists demonstrating calm and effective behaviors in situations...