Encourage stretching exercises to help your baby avoid standing on their toes.
Here's a breakdown of how you can address toe-standing in babies:
- Gentle Stretching Exercises: The most recommended approach is to gently stretch your baby's calf muscles.
- Technique: Lay or sit your baby on the floor or in your lap. Use toys to distract them and make the process enjoyable. Hold their knee straight with one hand and use the other to bring their toes towards their nose (dorsiflexion). Stop and hold the position when you feel resistance. Aim for a hold of at least 10 seconds, or longer if the baby tolerates it well.
- Frequency: Perform these stretches multiple times a day.
- Consult a Pediatrician or Physical Therapist:
- If the toe-standing persists, is frequent, or seems stiff, consult your pediatrician. They can rule out any underlying medical conditions.
- A physical therapist can provide a more thorough evaluation and design a personalized exercise program.
- Observe and Document: Keep track of how often your baby stands on their toes and in what situations. This information can be helpful for your pediatrician.
