Child Foot Care

Children can have just as many foot problems as adults, although not always the same ones.

Some problems may be evident at birth and others don’t become obvious for some years. If you feel that your infant, toddler or 13 year old has something that doesn’t look quite right then get it checked. It may save them a lot more trouble as an adult if treated sooner.

Common problems include in-toed/out-toed, flat feet, growing pains or aching legs, ingrown nails, warts, sore heels, ankles and knees.

In many cases, foot problems in adult life can often be prevented or reduced through early intervention in childhood. Bunions, hammer toes, curly toes and flat feet are common foot problems we see every day. All of these things can have a genetic cause which can be passed down from generation to generation, the good news is that effect of these problems can be minimised. At Podantics Podiatry we believe in trying to prevent your foot problems in the next generation with advice and management early on.

Children’s Foot Conditions

Growing Pains

These pains  are believed to be caused by growing too much too quickly but, can also be related to mechanical misalignment. If it is persistent and continuous it is important to have your child properly assessed.

Pediatric Flat Feet

Most children with flat feet have no symptoms. However, sometimes they may have trouble participating in physical activities or sports, or appear to walk or run awkwardly. Some complain of pain or cramping in their feet, legs or knees. Any pain or difficulty with a child’s feet should be evaluated.

Sever’s Disease (Calcaneal apophysitis)

Sever’s Disease is a painful inflammation of the heel’s growth plate. It typically affects children between the ages of 8 and 14 years old, because the heel bone (calcaneus) is not fully developed until at least age 14. Until then, new bone is forming at the growth plate (physis), a weak area located at the back of the heel. When there is too much repetitive stress on the growth plate, inflammation can develop.

Ingrown Toenails

Tight shoes or socks, or incorrect nail trimming are the most common cause of ingrown toenails in children, although sometimes the tendency for nails to curve inward is inherited. When the nail breaks the skin, serious infections can result. Parents should never try to dig the nail out at home; treatment by a podiatrist is advised.

Contact Bentley Podiatry today for more information.