Normal walking/running?

My son recently truned 2. I have some concerns about his walking and running.  When he walks he keeps his arms at his sides (usually hands unclenched) but does not have the reciprocal arm swing motion.  The arms are not stiff and they move a bit but not in a natural reciprocal motion.  I was wondering if he should have developed this by now?  He walks straight and his feet pointed forward so there is no problem there, it's just his arms.  When he runs his arms definatly move but not necessecarily in a coordinated way.  I'm just wondering if I should have this evaluated or can this be normal at this age?

Concerning other motor skills...he can catch a ball and throw a ball and jump with two feet off the ground at the same time.  He's also a great climber.  He doesn't fall when he's running or walking nor does he crash into things.

[Kevin Pho, MD]

Each child is an individual and grow at their own rate.  At two years of age, here are the motor developmental milestones (from Medline Plus):

"Physical and motor-skill markers:

    * Should have the first 16 teeth (can be a wide discrepancy)
    * The height is roughly half the total height the child will attain as an adult
    * May be psychologically ready for toilet training
    * Can run with better coordination, while the stance may remain wide
    * Can kick ball without losing balance
    * Can build a tower of 6 to 7 cubes
    * Can browse through a book one page at a time
    * Able to turn a door knob
    * Can pick up objects while standing without losing balance (often occurs by 15 months, and would be concerning if you don't see it by 2 years)"
http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/002012.htm

The amount of arm swing motion may be part of normal variation.  I was not able to find a "correct" amount in the literature.  If this is a concern, it can certainly be discussed with your pediatrician.  

This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patient education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.

Kevin, M.D.
Medical Weblog:
kevinmd_b

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