Pediatric Foot Care

Why is pediatric foot care important?

As children grow, the bones of their feet and ankles undergo significant changes. When a child has a medical issue that affects the feet and ankles, they require special care to ensure these issues are treated in the safest and most appropriate manner to avoid interfering with the natural growth cycle so long-term mobility issues can be avoided. Children also heal much faster and much differently than adults, and these differences in the healing process must also be taken into effect when developing a course of treatment that will treat the medical issues while also supporting the normal growth and development of the child. A podiatrist with experience in pediatric foot care has the skills and expertise that are needed to ensure pediatric foot issues are treated in a way that supports all those needs.

What kinds of foot and ankle problems are most common in children?

Fractures, sprains, and strains are very common among children as they increase their locomotion skills and especially as they begin to participate in sports, playground activities and other physical activities. In addition to these traumatic injuries, children are also more prone to developmental or congenital issues that can interfere with mobility or development, including:

• Flatfoot deformity
• In-toeing
• Clubfoot
• Medical issues affecting the growth and development of soft tissues, including ligaments, tendons, and muscles
• Gait-related problems that affect the way a child moves and can interfere with normal activities
• Ingrown toenails, warts and skin infections

Congenital (present at birth) defects and inherited issues can also play a role in childhood foot and ankle problems.

How are pediatric foot and ankle problems treated?

That depends on the type of problem that exists, how extensive it is, the child's age and other factors. Many issues can be successfully addressed with physical therapy, stretching exercises and custom orthotics. Some issues require surgery to correct. In any condition, early intervention is critical to achieving the best possible outcomes, and having problems carefully evaluated by an experienced pediatric foot care specialist is essential. Park Slope Podiatry is also experienced at treating infants and toddlers for foot care needs as well.