A podiatrist guide - Children’s feet
The Importance of Children's Podiatry: Supporting Healthy Foot Development
When it comes to our children’s health, we often think about their diet, education, and general well-being. But did you know that your child’s foot health plays a crucial role in their overall growth and development? Children’s feet are the foundation of their movement, balance, and posture, so ensuring they develop properly is essential for long-term health. This is where children's podiatry steps in, offering specialized care to monitor and address any concerns during these formative years.
Why is Children’s Podiatry Important?
Children's feet undergo significant changes as they grow, and their foot structure, gait, and posture evolve rapidly. The bones in a child’s foot are not fully formed until around the age of 13-15, and during this time, their feet are vulnerable to various issues that, if left untreated, can lead to long-term problems. Children’s podiatry focuses on identifying and treating foot problems early, helping to prevent complications that could impact their mobility and well-being into adulthood.
Common Foot Problems in Children
Children can experience a wide range of foot issues, some of which are temporary and resolve as they grow, while others require professional intervention. Here are some common foot conditions that children’s podiatrists treat:
1. Flat Feet
Flat feet, or fallen arches, are quite common in young children. Most children are born with flat feet, but their arches usually develop by the age of 6 or 7. In some cases, flat feet persist into adolescence and adulthood, which can lead to foot, knee, and back pain. A podiatrist can assess whether your child’s flat feet require treatment, such as custom orthotics or exercises to improve arch development.
2. Toe Walking
Some children walk on their toes rather than using the entire sole of their foot. While toe walking can be normal in toddlers learning to walk, it can indicate underlying issues like tight calf muscles or neurological conditions if it persists beyond age 2. A podiatrist can evaluate the cause and recommend treatments like stretching exercises or physical therapy.
3. In-toeing and Out-toeing
In-toeing (where the feet point inward) and out-toeing (where the feet point outward) are often noticeable when children first start walking. While these conditions typically resolve on their own as a child’s legs and feet develop, persistent or severe cases may require intervention. A podiatrist can assess your child’s gait and provide guidance on whether treatment is needed.
4. Sever’s Disease
Sever’s disease is a common cause of heel pain in growing children, particularly those involved in sports. It occurs when the growth plate in the heel becomes inflamed due to repetitive stress. A podiatrist can diagnose and treat Sever’s disease through strategies like reducing activity levels, prescribing orthotics, and recommending stretching exercises.
5. Ingrown Toenails
Children, especially those involved in sports or wearing tight shoes, are prone to developing ingrown toenails. Left untreated, ingrown toenails can become painful and lead to infection. A podiatrist can manage this condition by trimming the nails correctly and, in some cases, performing a minor procedure to remove part of the toenail.
Signs Your Child Might Need to See a Podiatrist
While children’s foot problems are often temporary, it’s important to know when to seek professional care. Here are some signs that may indicate your child needs to see a podiatrist:
Persistent pain in the feet, ankles, or legs
Difficulty walking or limping
Worn-out shoes with uneven wear patterns
Frequent tripping or falling
Bunions or other visible foot deformities
Complaints of heel pain, particularly after physical activity
Ingrown toenails or other nail-related issues
How Can a Children's Podiatrist Help?
A children's podiatrist specializes in the unique needs of growing feet and can provide expert care for a wide range of foot issues. Here’s how a podiatrist can help support your child’s foot health:
1. Developmental Assessment
Podiatrists assess your child’s foot structure and gait to ensure proper development. This includes checking for signs of flat feet, abnormal walking patterns, or misalignment. Early intervention can prevent minor issues from developing into major problems later in life.
2. Custom Orthotics
For children with flat feet, high arches, or other foot issues, custom orthotics can provide much-needed support. These inserts are specifically designed to fit your child’s feet and correct any imbalances, helping to improve posture and gait while reducing pain.
3. Education and Guidance
Podiatrists can offer advice on proper footwear for children, emphasizing the importance of well-fitting shoes that provide adequate support for growing feet. They can also teach parents and children simple exercises to strengthen foot muscles and promote healthy foot development.
4. Treatment of Injuries
Active children are more susceptible to foot and ankle injuries, such as sprains, fractures, and tendonitis. A podiatrist can diagnose and treat these injuries, helping your child recover quickly and prevent re-injury through rehabilitation exercises or protective devices.
5. Nail and Skin Care
Children can experience nail and skin conditions like warts, fungal infections, or ingrown toenails. Podiatrists are skilled in treating these conditions safely and effectively, ensuring your child’s feet stay healthy and pain-free.
The Role of Proper Footwear
One of the simplest yet most effective ways to support your child’s foot health is by choosing appropriate footwear. Children’s feet grow quickly, and ill-fitting shoes can cause blisters, discomfort, or even long-term foot issues. A podiatrist can guide you in selecting shoes that provide proper support, flexibility, and room for growth. It’s also important to replace shoes regularly, especially if they become worn out or too small.
Preventive Foot Care Tips for Parents
As a parent, there are steps you can take to support your child’s foot health and prevent potential problems:
Encourage regular activity: Physical activity strengthens muscles and improves coordination, which is essential for proper foot development.
Choose supportive footwear: Ensure your child wears shoes that are the correct size and offer proper support, especially during sports.
Monitor your child’s walking patterns: Pay attention to any signs of discomfort, limping, or unusual gait, and consult a podiatrist if you notice any concerns.
Keep an eye on toenail health: Trim your child’s nails straight across to avoid ingrown toenails, and ensure they wear breathable socks and shoes to prevent fungal infections.
Final Thoughts
Children’s podiatry plays an essential role in ensuring your child’s feet develop correctly and remain healthy as they grow. By addressing foot issues early, podiatrists can help prevent future problems and ensure your child can enjoy an active, pain-free lifestyle. If you notice any signs of foot discomfort or abnormal walking patterns in your child, don’t hesitate to consult a podiatrist for professional advice and care.
At The Podiatry Place, we specialise in children’s podiatry and are committed to supporting your child’s foot health every step of the way. Contact us today to book an appointment or learn more about our services.