Do Children's Feet Need Special Treatment?

Children's feet are different from adults as they are not yet fully mature. A baby's foot consists mainly of cartilage and so is very flexible and prone to damage from abnormal pressure (for example from shoes or socks that are too tight). For this reason it is important to continually check if socks and shoes still fit your child.

Footwear

Prior to walking "footwear" should be for warmth and protection only. When your child starts to walk (usually be between 8 and 18 months of age) it is time to look for the correct shoes. Remember it is important to allow sufficient bare foot time to help promote proper development of your child's feet. Make sure this is in a safe and protected environment to help prevent injuries such as insect bites, splinters and the like.

Developmental Stages

Children go through normal developmental changes in the feet and legs starting with quite "flat feet" and "bowed legs", progressing to "knocked knees". If you are concerned about the development of your child's feet or legs or if they are complaining of any pain see one of our Podiatrists. Often there is a simple reason for mysterious "growing pains" and they can be treated effectively by our Podiatrists.

Common conditions that can affect children's feet:

• • • Sever's Disease
    • Ingrown Toenails
    • Plantar warts
    • In-toeing or Out-toeing
    • Toe walking
    • Flat Feet
    • Foot Odour
    • Tinea
    • Under-riding/Over-riding toes
    • Bunions and other lumps and bumps

You should take your child to a podiatrist if:

• • • You notice uneven shoe wear
    • You notice any skin rashes, hard skin lumps or bumps on your child's feet
    • Your child complains of recurrent pain in the feet and/or legs
    • Your child is constantly tripping or falling
    • You have any other concerns about your child's feet

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