Common Foot and Ankle Issues in Children’s Foot Care

The following is a list of the most common foot and ankle problems that we treat:

Gait Abnormalities 

Parents, especially new ones, can be quite concerned when a child who is just starting to walk exhibits signs of gait abnormalities. The most common forms are toe walking, out-toeing, intoeing, and limping. 

In many instances, these issues will resolve on their own, but we can provide any necessary assurances, monitor the situation, and provide treatment when necessary. 

Foot Deformities 

Feet change their shape as children grow and develop, but little feet that appear misshapen or out of alignment should be reviewed by a podiatrist, especially if there are any signs of discomfort. 

Children are often born with flat feet that may be flexible (which means the arch only disappears when bearing weight) or inflexible, and while treatment is not always necessary it is extremely wise to get a check-up early to be safe. Other potential foot deformities in kids include clubfoot (an extreme twisting of one or both feet at birth) and even juvenile bunions. 

Heel Pain 

There are many potential causes of heel pain, but the most common one for children, especially adolescents, is Sever’s disease (calcaneal apophysis). In this condition, there is a discrepancy between the growth of the heel and the supporting soft tissues. The heel bone (calcaneus) grows more rapidly, creating tension, especially on the Achilles tendon. Treatment for this particular issue is centered on pain management, and to make sure that patients do not exhibit long-term effects. 

Ingrown Toenails 

An ingrown toenail condition is when the nail grows into the soft skin that flanks it. This is pretty common and can result from a couple of different causes, including improper trimming techniques, shoes that do not fit correctly, physical trauma, and inherited structure. 

When it comes to trimming nails, it is important to always clip toenails straight across—instead of rounding them—and even with the edge of the toe. It is also important to make sure that your child’s shoes should be comfortable when purchased (do not plan on them stretching out) and have room for the child to freely wiggle his or her toes. 

Sports Injuries 

A key component of healthy development is physical activity. Sports enable children to not only develop physical improvements in speed and strength but also to develop social skills and traits that will benefit them in other areas of life. 

Unfortunately, athletic events also pose the risk of injury. Common ones include sprained ankles, stress fractures, and growth plate injuries in the foot bones. RICE treatment (rest, ice, compression, and elevation) is usually quite effective, but you should still schedule an appointment for a proper evaluation. 

Athlete’s Foot 

If your son or daughter complains of itching or burning sensations on his or her feet, it is likely that athlete’s foot is to blame. The offensive fungus behind this condition thrives in warm, damp environments, which could very well describe a child’s foot in a sock and shoe. 

This fungal infection is rather common and begins between the toes before spreading across the foot. Over-the-counter sprays and powders work fairly well, but you may need to bring your son or daughter into our office for more severe cases. 

Plantar Warts 

Warts are caused by a viral infection courtesy of the common human papillomavirus (HPV). These can form anywhere on a foot, but they are more likely to appear on the bottom. When a plantar wart grows deep into the skin, it can make standing or walking painful. 

Home remedies are available, but they can pose a potential risk to the healthy skin around the growth. We offer professional treatment to safely and effectively remove the wart for your child.