When Should a Child See a Podiatrist?
Foot health often plays a critical role when it comes to children’s overall well-being, yet it’s often overlooked – until issues arise. That is why it can be important to be aware of specific requirements, signs, and symptoms that may indicate a need to visit a podiatry clinic.
As podiatrists, we complete extensive education to assess, diagnose, treat, and manage conditions and injuries that affect the feet and lower limbs of people in all age groups.
Children’s growing feet are subject to numerous developmental changes, as well as a lifestyle that often involves frequent activity and falls. What’s more, some untreated childhood issues may have an impact during adulthood. With all this in mind, early and relevant intervention can be pivotal.
There are many reasons why the health of a child’s feet or lower limbs may benefit from podiatry care. Find out what issues or needs may prompt a visit to a podiatrist and how we might help your child.
What Childhood Concerns Can a Podiatrist Treat?
Podiatrists can treat a broad range of concerns, from injuries to development issues to problems related to medical conditions. Some of these may include:
- Gait abnormalities, such as in-toeing or out-toeing, which may affect a child’s ability to walk.
- Flat feet, which can be a common condition. This may require intervention if it begins to cause pain or mobility issues.
- Clubfoot, which is a congenital condition that may affect the shape and position of the foot.
- Ingrown toenails, which may be painful, unsightly, and prone to infection.
- Toe deformities, such as overlapping toes, claw toes, and hammertoes.
- Injuries, such as sprains, fractures, or tendonitis.
- Sever’s disease, which is a heel condition that can cause pain.
- Plantar warts.
What Signs Indicate My Child’s Feet Need Podiatry Care?
The reasons why a child may benefit from a podiatry visit vary widely. Some of the key indicators that your child’s feet or lower limb region may require professional assistance can include:
- Walking difficulties and abnormal walking patterns, such as persistent tiptoe walking, frequent clumsiness, or unexpected fatigue during physical activities.
- Alignment
- concerns, such as joint hypermobility and bowed legs, which may affect gait, posture,
- functionality, and comfort.
- Skin and nail
- issues, such as eczema, warts, skin cracks, or fungal nail infections.
- Pain or
- reduced mobility, which might be transient, constant, acute, or chronic. If the
- issue lasts for more than 48 hours, it may be beneficial to acquire an
- assessment.
- Risks associated with a family history of foot-related conditions like arthritis, high arches, or joint hypermobility.
Can my Child Benefit From Podiatry if They Have
No Discomfort or Mobility Issues?
There are also many reasons why a podiatry appointment might be advantageous, even if there is no obvious or significant issue present. These can include factors such as:
- Recommendations for well-fitting, supportive footwear that promotes healthy foot development.
- Preventative care, which may involve the development of their gait, joint alignment, and foot structure, the health of their joints and soft tissues, and injury prevention. This may be particularly pertinent when there is a relevant family medical history or if your child undertakes a lot of sporting activities.
- Education for children and parents about foot care such as good hygiene and proper nail trimming.
These steps may minimise or avoid the development of foot or lower limb issues and help to maintain a good quality of life for your child. They may also help to reduce the risk of issues arising when they are adults.
Our Friendly Team Can Support You And Your Child
At Midland Podiatry, we provide comprehensive care to all our patients of all ages. If your child is displaying issues of concern or you are interested in receiving advice regarding their foot health, please contact us to organise an appointment.
