Children’s feet differ from those of adults as they are not yet fully formed. The bones of young children are still very soft and are therefore more easily affected by abnormal pressure and forces. Early intervention can help correct foot problems that will affect your child later in life.

Our Podiatrists treat a range of problems when it comes to children’s feet. Some common issues are:

Flat Feet

Children with flat feet (also called pes planus) have ‘fallen arches’ or ‘rolled in feet’. Having flat feet is normal in infants and toddlers because the foot’s arch is not yet developed. Most children with flat feet have no symptoms but as they get older the flat foot puts strain on muscles and ligaments resulting in sore and tired feet and legs.

In-Toeing

In-toeing (commonly referred to as pigeon-toed) is when your child’s feet are turned inwards. It is common for this condition to correct itself during their early school years, however if you’re finding that your child is tripping or having trouble walking, then professional advice from a Podiatrist should be sort.

Sever’s Disease

Sever’s Disease, also referred to as ‘Severs’ or ‘Calcaneal Apophysitis’ is a common cause of heel pain in children. It’s a growing condition caused by excessive muscle strain on the growth plate of the heel bone resulting in pain, especially after sports and activities. This pain usually limits their activity or can cause them to limp.

Osgood-Schlatters Disease

Osgood-Schlatters Disease is a common cause of pain in front of the knee in late childhood and early adolescence. The child develops swelling or a lump below the knee cap and is often the result of excessive muscle strain on the growth plate of the Tibia bone.

Re-occurring Injuries

Re-occurring foot, ankle, leg and knee injuries while participating in sport/activity may be due to lower limb biomechanics. If the associated muscles, ligaments and tendons are not performing efficiently, it can cause the limbs to compensate.

Growing Pains

Growing pains are irregular periods of muscular aches and pains often associated with the knee, leg and feet. The pain is often worse in the afternoon or evening. A child can experience these pains from as early as 5 years of age right through to teenage years. Boys and girls are equally affected.  Even though the child can be in a lot of pain, no damage is happening to the child’s bones or muscles. Simple treatments can help alleviate these pains.

Warts

Warts are a skin lesion that occurs on a child’s foot due to being in contact with the Human Papilloma Virus. They appear as a rough lump usually on the bottom of the foot. As they are highly infections it is advised that a Podiatrist threat them as soon as possible.

As children grow their joints and bones develop and change. For this reason it is important for a child to have an annual Podiatry check-up. These assessments can identify any issues as well as ensure a child’s growth and development match their age. When it comes to children’s feet, early intervention will always deliver the best outcome.