Elevated Body Temperature and Walking Patterns in Toddlers

Q: Elevated Body Temperature and Walking Patterns in Toddlers

Hello Ms. <br>Huang： First, to answer your first question. <br>A person's body temperature naturally fluctuates due to various factors such as external environment, activity level, and whether they have eaten recently, as well as the time of day. <br>This is especially true in yo

Warm palms?

Hello Dr.
Shi: My daughter is currently one year and three months old.
Since the weather has turned warmer, her palms have been warm, and her body temperature is generally around 37.5 degrees Celsius.
It decreases slightly after sweating but remains above 37 degrees.
However, when she is in an air-conditioned room, her temperature sometimes rises instead of falling, occasionally reaching 37.8 degrees.
Despite this, her energy levels and appetite seem normal.
Is this normal? Additionally, she has been walking independently for over two months now, but her stability is not very good.
I've noticed that her walking posture seems unusual, with her feet spread apart in a sort of "V" shape, even when she is not wearing a diaper.
Is this normal? Thank you for your response.

Ms. Huang, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2001/07/26

Dr. Shi Zhongxian reply Pediatrics

Hello Ms.
Huang: First, to answer your first question.
A person's body temperature naturally fluctuates due to various factors such as external environment, activity level, and whether they have eaten recently, as well as the time of day.
This is especially true in young children, whose temperature regulation centers in the brain are less mature, resulting in weaker control over body temperature.
Generally, the optimal temperature range is between 36.5°C and 37.5°C.
I wonder if your daughter is slimmer than other children her age? In slimmer children, body temperature may be slightly higher in the afternoon.
If her energy levels and appetite are normal, and if we rule out factors such as infection, a temperature below 38°C is acceptable.
Additionally, it's important to note the method of temperature measurement; the aforementioned range refers to axillary temperature.
If measuring via the ear, you should add 0.5°C, and ear measurements can also be affected by factors such as earwax, moisture, and any infections, which can impact accuracy.

Regarding your second question, a child's foot pronation and supination can change with age.
Generally, as long as both feet are relatively symmetrical before the age of four, we can consider this acceptable.
Foot pronation is most pronounced between one and one and a half years of age.
Therefore, it seems that your child is within the normal range.
I hope these answers are satisfactory.
If you have any further questions, feel free to email me again.

Reply Date: 2001/07/26

More Info

When it comes to understanding elevated body temperature and walking patterns in toddlers, there are several factors to consider. First, let's address the elevated body temperature. A normal body temperature for toddlers typically ranges from about 36.1°C to 37.2°C (97°F to 99°F). Your daughter's temperature of around 37.5°C (99.5°F) is slightly elevated but not necessarily a cause for concern, especially if she is otherwise active and eating well.
It's important to note that toddlers can have variations in their body temperature due to several factors, including activity level, the environment, and even the time of day. For instance, temperatures can rise slightly during the day and may be higher in warmer environments or after physical activity. The fact that her temperature decreases after sweating and remains elevated in air-conditioned rooms could be related to her body's thermoregulation. In air-conditioned spaces, the body may not cool down as effectively if the ambient temperature is significantly lower than the body temperature, leading to a temporary increase in measured temperature.

If your daughter is otherwise healthy, active, and has a good appetite, this slight elevation in temperature may not be a concern. However, if you notice any other symptoms such as lethargy, irritability, or a loss of appetite, it would be wise to consult a pediatrician to rule out any underlying issues.

Now, regarding her walking pattern, it's common for toddlers to have a wide stance when they first start walking. This is part of their natural development as they gain balance and coordination. The "W" or "八" shaped walking pattern you described, where her feet are turned outwards, is also quite common in toddlers. This stance can help them maintain balance as they learn to walk. Most children will naturally adjust their walking patterns as they grow and develop muscle strength and coordination.

However, if her walking pattern seems excessively wide or if you notice any signs of discomfort, pain, or difficulty in walking, it would be advisable to consult a pediatrician or a pediatric orthopedic specialist. They can assess her gait and determine if there are any concerns that need to be addressed.
In summary, while your daughter's slightly elevated body temperature and wide walking stance may be within the range of normal for her age, it's always best to keep an eye on her overall health and development. Regular check-ups with her pediatrician can help ensure that she is developing appropriately and that any potential issues are addressed early on. If you have any concerns, don't hesitate to reach out to a healthcare professional for personalized advice.

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