KateBall Report post Posted December 21, 2007 Ds was referred to physio and orthotic man this week about his walking gait being odd. He used to walk on tip toes and still does sometimes and also is a bit springy on heels. He also walks leaning forwards. They think his hamstring is very tight particularly on left leg and its just got more noticeable in terms of the way he walks because of his growth spurt. His hips rotate very well (could be a ballet dancer then ) and he is hypermobile in places - especially fingers. He will have to do exercises to try and loosen the hamstring. Do any of your children have similar problems? How common is this generally or with ASD children? Just wondered. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Lynden Report post Posted December 21, 2007 I think its fairly common with children with ASDs. Logan has hypotonia - but he also has hypermobile joints so is very bendy. He gets stability boots and his new ones are going to have something else to stop him toe walking too. Lynne x Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Ian Jordan Report post Posted December 22, 2007 (edited) look at video on www.jordanseyes.com - click on aspergers tab - its near the end of the clip so be patient The cause of gait problems is often vestibular (resulting in head tilt) rather than in the legs - and although you can address by shoe inserts getiing the vestibular right will often sort out the cause. Get this checked before foot inserts. If it is the cause then shoe inserts will long term, cause more problems and the orthotist will not check this. Also get visio spatial awareness checked and sensory integration if possible as these also may be relevant Edited December 22, 2007 by Ian Jordan Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Karen A Report post Posted December 22, 2007 Hi Ben also gets tight hamstrings.I think it is the result of walking on tiptoes.We found that exercises help to loosen the hamstring did help.We also ensure that Ben wears shoes with plenty of support and uses trainers rather than plimsoles in pe.I think some children do need specialist shoes or inserts.Karen. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Ian Jordan Report post Posted December 22, 2007 i didn't say they don't need inserts - but make sure that the cause is treated - not just the effect. You can treat symptoms and mask cause - so you should always try to ascertain cause - because treating effect may cause long term problems. Walking on tiptoes often indicates visio spatial awareness problems - and can be treated in seconds if it is the case - preventing gait posture and other mechanical difficulties Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
