In the early years, as your kids develop, you need to pay attention to their actions to get a jump on any foot or ankle problems they may be having. Foot dragging, limping, or tiptoeing could be the indication of a problem. Fortunately, many childhood foot care issues are growth-related and will tend to correct themselves over time. Have regular checkups with your foot doctor to catch any problematic developments.

Four common children’s foot problems include the following:

1. Sever’s disease—This is a common problem in children that is characterized by an inflammation near the growth plates on the heel. Since the growth plates are not completely developed yet, severe pain is caused by stress to the foot. Consider curtailing sports and other stressful activities until the growth plates equalize.
2. Ingrown toenails—Ingrown toenails are caused by footwear that is too tight or when a toenail is cut too short.
3. Warts—Warts are very common in kids and are caused by the ubiquitous human papillomavirus. When they occur on the bottom of the foot in the plantar fascia, they are called plantar warts. These warts are often hidden by thick skin in the ball and heel areas of the foot. See your foot doctor for the easiest and most painless removal.
4. Flexible flat feet— This condition often occurs with no noticeable symptoms. Since kid’s feet are still growing, the arches are flexible. and you shouldn’t worry unless the arches don’t start to become more formed and rigid as the child develops.

For any issues your kids may be having with their feet and ankles, be sure to contact your podiatrist for the proper diagnosis and correct care. At Your Next Step, our team of board-certified podiatrists has access to advanced technologies, along with years of experience, to help diagnose and treat a variety of foot and ankle problems, including sports injuries, joint pain, toe deformities, nail fungus, chronic tendon pain, and skin problems. Dr. Eric Ricefield, Dr. Mark Yagodich, and Dr. Aliza V. Eisen provide high-quality foot and ankle care to patients in the greater Philadelphia area at our offices conveniently located in Ardmore, Paoli, and Downingtown, PA. Please contact us for more information or to schedule an appointment.