New ultrasound technique sheds light on why some children walk on tiptoes

This study used a special ultrasound technique called shear-wave elastography to measure stiffness in the calf muscles and Achilles tendon of children who walk on their toes for no known medical reason. Researchers compared 46 children—half with idiopathic toe walking and half healthy peers—to see if muscle stiffness differs between the groups. The goal is to better understand the physical changes in the muscles that may contribute to this walking pattern.