Common Early Years Conditions

Before the age of 3 years, we expect children to have flat feet as the arch on the inside of the foot has not started to develop yet. The arch does not fully develop until the age of 6-8 years. 

Flat feet are generally nothing to be concerned about as it does not usually cause any problems. 95% of children outgrow their flat feet, the other 5% will continue to have flat feet, but only a small number will ever have problems. 

Click the links blow to find out more: 

Flat feet in children APCP

Choosing the right footwear

In toeing, or pidgeon toed walking is where the toes point inwards when walking instead of facing forwards. It is often seen when a child starts walking or running.  It is generally nothing to worry about, and is classed as ‘normal variant’ as we expect it to improve and correct itself as your child grows.

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Babies who spend a lot of time in one position can develop flattening of their head due to their skulls being soft when they are first born. Flattening can be at the back or either side of their head. 

Please click the links below to find out more:

 APCP Website 

Head turn preference and plagiocephaly leaflet

NHS Website

Positional talipes (often referred to as PTEV) is common in newborn babies and is where baby's foot turns inwards and downwards. Positional talipes can be corrected by stretches. 

Congenital talipes (often referred to as CTEV or clubfoot) is where the foot position cannot be corrected by stretches and your baby will be referred to Orthopaedics. 

Click the links below for more information:

Positional talipes

Congenital talipes

It’s common for children under the age of 3 to walk on tip toes from time to time. As they get older, children usually start to get their heels down.

Click the links before more information:

Toe walking CSP

Children under 5 years of age go through periods of development when their legs appear to be bowed or knock kneed. This is completely normal and nothing to be concerned about. This will normally resolve itself once they are 2-3 years old. 

Click the links below for more information:

• Bowed legs and knock knees CSP
• NHS England - knock knees

Your baby must always sleep on their back to reduce the risk of cot death. Please click the link below for more information:

The Lullaby Trust