Foot Conditions to Look Out for in Children

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Foot pain at any age should never be taken as something normal. Pain after all is just one of the body’s way of telling us that something has gone wrong. When pain lingers for more than a few days or affects a child’s walking, this should be consulted with a podiatrist.

 

Feet Conditions in Children

 

Flatfoot – this is mostly asymptomatic meaning children do not experience any symptoms associated with the condition. However, this can interfere with how the child participates in physical activities. They might have difficulty running or joining sports activities as flatfoot may cause pain or discomfort. A child may experience leg and foot cramps as their feet tire easily.    

 

Ingrown toenails – this is a toenail condition that is easily avoidable. This is mostly caused by incorrect nail trimming. Cutting the tails too short or trimming it until the edges too zealously can cause ingrown toenails. The edges of the toenail can curve inward causing a break in the skin. This can be a convenient entry point for infection. It can also cause pain when wearing shoes with tight toe boxes.

 

Plantar Wart – warts can be found anywhere in the foot. But this typically appear at the foot’s bottom. The human papilloma virus is the causative agent of plantar warts and warts that appear on all parts of the body. Plantar warts are common among children. This can cause pain as the warts grow deep into the skin.

 

Calcaneal Apophysitis or Sever’s Disease – is an inflammation of the heel’s growth plate. This is a painful condition usually seen in children 8 to 14 years old. This happens because the heel bone or calcaneus does not become fully developed until the child reaches 14. Repeated high impact activities such as running or jumping for example places huge stress on the heel’s growth plate causing pain and inflammation.

 

Shoe Buying Tips for Children

  • Firm, comfortable shoes

  • Shoes with flexible soles

  • Rounded toe boxes

  • Shoes that provide additional support

  • Heel support

  • Shoes with laces that keep the feet firmly in place

 

Children may have problems expressing how they feel. This makes identifying possible foot problems in children a big responsibility for parents. Consult a podiatrist if you feel that your child is suffering from a foot condition.

 

Here at The Texas Foot Specialists, Dr. Bruce Miller and Dr. Gregory Mangum provide expert and specialized care to address all of your foot and ankle needs. From conservative to advanced surgical treatments, you can always count on us for quality and compassionate care. Contact us online to make an appointment at one of our conveniently located offices in Sugar Land, Pasadena or Houston.