Understanding the Causes of Delayed Walking in Babies: Expert Guidance from a Pediatric Orthopedic Surgeon

 Walking is one of the most exciting milestones in a child’s development, usually achieved between 12 to 15 months. However, some babies may take longer to start walking, which can understandably worry parents. While each child develops at their own pace, understanding the potential causes of delayed walking in babies can help parents identify issues early and seek appropriate care. Consulting a pediatric orthopedic specialist ensures timely evaluation and intervention to support your child’s mobility and overall development.



For parents in Secunderabad, Dr. Roshan Kumar Jaiswal, MBBS, DNB (Ortho), a leading pediatric orthopedic surgeon at KIMS Hospital, provides expert guidance on developmental delays, musculoskeletal health, and safe walking practices for children.

Common Causes of Delayed Walking in Children

1. Flat Feet (Pes Planus)

Flat feet, or pes planus, occur when the arches of the feet are underdeveloped. This is common in infants and usually improves naturally as the child grows.

  • Flat feet can sometimes affect balance and stability, causing a delay in walking.

  • Supportive footwear, exercises targeting foot muscles, and medical guidance from a pediatric orthopedic doctor can improve walking development.

  • Early recognition helps prevent posture or gait issues in the future.

2. Muscular Weakness and Reduced Strength

Muscle strength and coordination are critical for walking. Some children may experience delayed walking due to:

  • Low muscle tone or hypotonia

  • Neuromuscular disorders

  • General weakness or delayed physical development

In these cases, strengthening exercises, physical therapy, and professional evaluation can support timely progress. A pediatric orthopedic specialist in Secunderabad can recommend the right interventions to enhance mobility safely.

3. Delayed Motor Maturation

Delayed motor maturation refers to children whose gross motor skills, including crawling, standing, and walking, develop more slowly than typical milestones.

  • Often, these children catch up naturally without intensive intervention.

  • Continuous monitoring of developmental milestones is essential to ensure there are no underlying medical concerns.

  • While many children with delayed motor maturation develop normally, consultation with a pediatric orthopedic surgeon provides reassurance and guidance.

4. Developmental Conditions Affecting Bones and Joints

Certain musculoskeletal or developmental disorders can contribute to delayed walking:

  • Hip Dysplasia: Improper formation of the hip joint can cause instability, discomfort, or difficulty walking. Early detection through screening and treatment, including bracing or surgery, can prevent long-term complications.

  • Rickets: A condition caused by vitamin D deficiency, leading to weakened bones and leg deformities, such as bowing. Timely treatment improves bone strength and mobility.

Addressing these conditions early with the help of a pediatric orthopedic doctor in Secunderabad ensures better outcomes for children’s mobility and overall health.

Signs That Indicate a Need for Specialist Evaluation

Parents should consider seeking professional advice if their child shows:

  • No interest in standing or attempting to walk by 18 months

  • Persistent imbalance or frequent falls

  • Pain or discomfort when attempting to walk

  • Visible deformities in the legs, hips, or feet

  • Uneven limb length or stiffness in joints

Early consultation with a pediatric orthopedic surgeon like Dr. Roshan Kumar Jaiswal helps identify potential causes and prevents complications associated with delayed walking.

Benefits of Early Intervention

Early evaluation and treatment provide multiple benefits:

  • Supports healthy motor development

  • Corrects musculoskeletal abnormalities before they worsen

  • Reduces the risk of poor posture, gait issues, or joint problems

  • Builds confidence in the child as they learn to walk independently

A tailored approach by a pediatric orthopedic specialist ensures interventions are age-appropriate and suited to the child’s specific needs.

How a Pediatric Orthopedic Specialist Helps

A pediatric orthopedic doctor evaluates your child’s musculoskeletal system comprehensively. At KIMS Hospital, Secunderabad, Dr. Roshan Kumar Jaiswal:

  • Conducts a thorough physical examination of the legs, feet, and hips

  • Uses imaging techniques, if necessary, to assess bone and joint health

  • Designs individualized treatment plans, which may include exercises, braces, or surgical options for complex cases

  • Monitors progress over time to ensure safe and effective development

By combining clinical expertise with child-friendly care, Dr. Jaiswal helps children overcome developmental delays and achieve mobility milestones confidently.

Supporting Your Child at Home

Parents can complement professional care with home-based strategies:

  • Encourage supervised floor play to strengthen leg muscles

  • Practice simple exercises for balance and coordination

  • Ensure children wear appropriate footwear that provides support and stability

  • Monitor developmental progress and consult the specialist for any concerns

These steps, alongside regular follow-ups, help children develop a strong foundation for walking and future physical activity.

Conclusion

Delayed walking in babies is often due to temporary or manageable factors, but it can sometimes signal underlying conditions requiring expert attention. Consulting a pediatric orthopedic surgeon in Secunderabad ensures early detection, proper management, and peace of mind for parents.

For comprehensive evaluation and treatment, book an appointment with Dr. Roshan Kumar Jaiswal, MBBS, DNB (Ortho), a trusted pediatric orthopedic surgeon at KIMS Hospital, Secunderabad. With specialized care, your child can confidently reach developmental milestones and enjoy active, healthy growth.

Book Your Appointment Today

📞 Call: 9542904584
 🌐 Visit: www.drroshanchildortho.com

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