Noticing Something Different About How Your Child Walks?
Children go through many changes as they grow, and their walking patterns are no exception. Some may walk with their feet turned in, prefer to walk on tiptoes, or seem clumsy when running or climbing stairs. While some of these patterns are part of normal development, others may point to issues that need professional attention.
That’s where a gait assessment for kids comes in. In Singapore, gait assessments are readily available to help parents understand whether their child’s walking style is within the expected range or if it needs correction.
Where can I get a paediatric gait assessment for my child in Singapore?
Gait assessments for children are offered at:
- Paediatric physiotherapy and podiatry clinics
- Multidisciplinary musculoskeletal centres
- Private hospitals or orthopaedic departments
At Physio & Sole Clinic, we provide conjoint gait assessments by both paediatric physiotherapists and podiatrists, ensuring your child receives well-rounded care.
What is involved in a gait assessment for children in Singapore?
A gait assessment is a detailed analysis of how your child stands, walks, and moves. It typically includes:
- A review of developmental milestones and medical history
- Observation of walking, running, squatting, and balance
- Foot posture and joint flexibility checks
- A footwear review
- In some cases, video gait analysis for detailed movement breakdown
These assessments are non-invasive, child-friendly, and designed to pick up subtle issues that may affect posture, comfort, or coordination.
What are the common conditions identified during gait assessments?
Gait assessments can detect a variety of issues, including:
- Flat feet (pes planus)
- In-toeing or out-toeing
- Toe walking
- Knock knees or bow legs
- Uneven leg lengths
- Hypermobile (very flexible) joints
- Delayed motor milestones, like late walking or poor balance
Identifying these early allows for timely intervention and helps prevent long-term complications like joint pain, reduced physical confidence, or poor posture.
How much does a gait assessment for kids cost in Singapore?
Here’s what you can typically expect:
- Public sector: $60–$120 (with referral through polyclinic or KKH, potential long waiting time)
- Private clinics: $160–$220 (No referral required)
- Orthotics (if needed): $280–$700, depending on type and material
While costs may vary, early detection often saves time and resources in the long run as we can prevent further complex issues.
Are there specialists for children’s gait assessment in Singapore?
Yes, there are! In Singapore, children’s gait assessments are typically conducted by podiatrists and physiotherapists who have specialised training in paediatric care. These healthcare professionals are experienced in evaluating a child’s musculoskeletal development, walking patterns, and physical milestones.
At Physio & Sole Clinic, our gait assessments are carried out by a co-management team of paediatric-trained podiatrists and physiotherapists, ensuring a well-rounded understanding of your child’s condition. Our team is skilled in:
- Identifying developmental or biomechanical issues
- Engaging children in a safe, non-intimidating environment
- Providing multilingual support to ensure clear communication with families
By working together, our specialists help ensure your child receives personalised care tailored to their age, needs, and activity level — whether they’re learning to walk, playing sports, or experiencing foot or leg discomfort.
What are the benefits of children’s gait assessment?
- Detects problems early — before they become painful or difficult to correct.
Gait assessments can identify subtle movement or alignment issues that might otherwise go unnoticed until they cause discomfort or limit mobility later on. - Supports healthy development and reduces injury risk
By catching potential biomechanical concerns early, gait assessments help prevent strain on growing joints and muscles, especially during critical development stages. - Improves posture, balance, and coordination
A thorough assessment can lead to better alignment and muscle activation, helping your child move more efficiently and confidently in daily life and during physical activity. - Boosts your child’s physical confidence and comfort
When a child walks or runs without discomfort, they’re more likely to participate in sports, play, and participate in social activities with ease, leading to better physical and emotional well-being. - Helps parents make informed decisions about shoes, sports, and therapy
You’ll receive professional guidance on choosing supportive footwear, identifying suitable physical activities, and whether your child may benefit from orthotics, physiotherapy, or ongoing monitoring.
When should you bring your child for a children’s gait assessment?
Book a gait assessment if your child:
- Frequently walks on tiptoes
- Seems unusually clumsy or off-balance
- Complaints of knee, ankle, or foot pain
- Has noticeably flat feet or turned-in/turned-out feet
- Wears out shoes unevenly
- Seems behind in gross motor skills like walking, running, or jumping
Get Peace of Mind About Your Child’s Movement
Gait assessments are a simple, effective way to make sure your child is walking the way they should. At Physio & Sole Clinic, our team works closely with families to ensure each child receives the care, support, and attention they need.
Book your child’s gait assessment with us today — and take the first step toward confident movement.
