Cross Crawl Exercises for Pigeon-Toe Gait in Children

Why Cross Crawl Works

Cross crawl mimics natural walking—opposite arm meets opposite knee—and offers powerful benefits:

• Enhances coordination between body sides
• Balances overactive and underactive muscles
• Supports hip, knee, and foot alignment
• Builds proprioceptive awareness

Pair it with gentle pediatric chiropractic adjustments to restore joint movement and improve nervous system coordination—and lock that progress in at home.

When Imaging May Be Needed (After Age 5)

Most in-toeing cases don’t require imaging. But your San Diego chiropractor may recommend imaging if there’s:

• Pain, limping, or worsening gait
• Unilateral symptoms or developmental delay
• Persistent symptoms beyond age 8–10 when surgery is being considered (CT helps assess bone rotation)

Homework for Parents (Daily Routine)

Do these every day to support alignment and coordination:

1. Cross Crawl – March in place, touching opposite hand to opposite knee for 1–2 minutes, 2–3 times daily.
   • Here’s what it looks like in action: Watch the Cross Crawl Demo on YouTube
2. Glute Activation – Bridges & clamshells, 10–15 reps per side.
3. Stretch Tight Muscles –
   • Sit cross-legged for 1–2 minutes (hip internal rotators)
   • Seated hamstring stretch, 20–30 seconds per leg

Why Awesome Family Chiropractic Makes a Difference

At Awesome Family Chiropractic, we take a full-body approach—from the spine all the way to the feet. Our gentle pediatric adjustments help the nervous system and muscles work together better, supporting improved gait and coordination naturally. Proudly serving families across San Diego.

Quick Recap & Takeaway

• If in-toeing persists past age 4–5, schedule a chiropractic evaluation.
• These at-home exercises are easy, effective, and work beautifully with care from a San Diego chiropractor.
• Early, targeted intervention supports healthy movement, posture, and confidence.

Disclaimer: This blog is for general education only and doesn’t replace medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

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