Children are constantly on the move, which puts a lot of stress on their developing feet. As parents, it’s important to be aware of common pediatric foot conditions and know how to address them to ensure your child’s feet stay healthy. At Family Podiatry of Maryland, our expert podiatrists are here to help diagnose and treat a variety of foot problems in children. Here’s a look at some common foot conditions in children and tips for parents to manage them.
Common Pediatric Foot Conditions
- Flat Feet
- Description: Flat feet occur when the arches of the feet do not develop properly, causing the entire foot to touch the ground.
- Symptoms: Pain or discomfort in the feet, ankles, or lower legs, especially after physical activity.
- Treatment: Most children may outgrow flat feet as they develop. However, if your child experiences pain or difficulty walking, custom orthotics or supportive footwear may be recommended.
- Ingrown Toenails
- Description: This condition occurs when the edge of a toenail grows into the surrounding skin, causing pain and inflammation.
- Symptoms: Redness, swelling, and tenderness around the affected toenail, sometimes with pus if an infection is present.
- Treatment: Soak the foot in warm water with Epsom salt. If the condition persists or becomes infected, a visit to our podiatrist is necessary for proper treatment.
- Plantar Warts
- Description: Plantar warts are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV) and appear on the soles of the feet.
- Symptoms: Small, rough growths on the bottom of the feet, sometimes with black dots in the center.
- Treatment: Over-the-counter treatments are available, but persistent warts may require professional removal by our podiatrists.
- Sever’s Disease
- Description: A common cause of heel pain in growing children, Sever’s disease is an inflammation of the growth plate in the heel.
- Symptoms: Heel pain, especially after physical activity, and tenderness at the bottom of the heel.
- Treatment: Rest, ice, and anti-inflammatory medications can help. Our podiatrists may also recommend stretching exercises and supportive footwear.
- Toe Walking
- Description: Some children develop a habit of walking on their toes, which can be a normal phase but may indicate an underlying issue if it persists.
- Symptoms: Walking on the toes without putting the heels down.
- Treatment: If toe walking continues beyond the toddler years, a consultation with our podiatrists is advisable. Physical therapy or orthotic devices might be recommended.
Tips for Parents to Prevent Pediatric Foot Problems
- Choose the Right Footwear: Ensure your child wears well-fitting, supportive shoes that are appropriate for their activities. Avoid shoes that are too tight or too loose. Make sure their feet are sized every time they buy new shoes.
- Encourage Physical Activity: Regular exercise helps strengthen the muscles and ligaments in the feet. Activities like running, jumping, and playing sports are beneficial.
- Teach Good Hygiene: Encourage your child to wash their feet daily, dry them thoroughly, and keep their toenails trimmed straight across to prevent ingrown toenails.
- Monitor Foot Development: Pay attention to any complaints of foot pain or changes in walking patterns. Early detection of foot problems can lead to more effective treatment.
- Regular Check-Ups: Schedule regular check-ups with our podiatrists to monitor your child’s foot health and address any concerns promptly.
How Our Podiatrists Can Help
At Family Podiatry of Maryland, our experienced podiatrists specialize in diagnosing and treating pediatric foot conditions. We offer:
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- Comprehensive Assessments: Thorough evaluations to identify the root cause of foot problems.
- Custom Orthotics: Tailor-made inserts to provide the right support and alleviate pain.
- Advanced Treatments: State-of-the-art treatments for conditions like warts, ingrown toenails, and heel pain.
- Preventive Care: Advice and care plans to prevent future foot problems and ensure healthy foot development.
- Multiple Locations: Our practice has 3 conveniently located offices in Baltimore, Towson, and Reisterstown. The Reisterstown office is only a short 15 minute drive from Owings Mills!
Conclusion
Healthy feet are crucial for your child’s overall development and well-being. If you notice any foot problems or your child complains of foot pain, don’t hesitate to contact Family Podiatry of Maryland. Our compassionate and skilled podiatrists are here to provide the best care for your child’s feet. Schedule an appointment today and take the first step towards healthier, happier feet for your little ones.
Schedule Your Appointment Today
Don’t let foot pain or discomfort hold you back. Contact Family Podiatry of Maryland today to schedule an appointment and take the first step toward healthier feet. Our friendly staff is ready to assist you and answer any questions you may have.
Contact:
- Website: https://familypodiatryofmd.com/contactus
- Phone: (410) 833-2255
Family Podiatry of Maryland – Where Your Foot Health is Our Priority