Pediatric Toe Walking with Dr. Liesa Ritchie-Persaud PT, DPT, PCS

Pediatric toe walking is an atypical movement pattern that is poorly understood but can have a wide range of short and long term consequences for children. In this episode, we are thrilled to bring you THE expert in this area of physical therapy practice, Dr. Liesa Ritchie-Persaud. Through her business, Know To Change, Liesa brings years of clinical expertise, global work in continuing education, and her own technique for assessment and treatment of idiopathic toe walking. In this episode we cover why children toe walk, why toe walking should be treated and the risks of not treating it, common diagnoses associated with toe walking, and how vision affects toe walking. Liesa answers common questions about the use of saucers and walkers, shoes, botox, casting, and surgery and provides detailed guidelines of when children should be referred and treated for toe walking by a skilled therapist. Finally, she explains the differences in the courses she offers for therapists who want to learn more. Whether you are a parent or a therapist facing this often pesky and persistent diagnoses, this conversation is sure to further your knowledge and understanding and inspire your work.

Resources Mentioned:

• Leisa's website, courses, and resources:

www.KnowToChange.com

• Nancy Dilger study:

https://footprintspediatrictherapy.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/Dilger_ITW.pdf

• College of Optometrists in Vision Development:

https://www.covd.org/?

• Eye Can Learn:

https://eyecanlearn.com/

• Seeing Through New Eyes Book:

https://www.amazon.com/Seeing-Through-New-Eyes-Developmental/dp/1843108003

Medbridge Parent Guide:

http://orlafoley.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/AParentsGuidetoPediatricToeWalking.pdf