Children and Foot Care

Childhood is an important time of anyone's life. It's important for emotional and physical development, and the development of feet is of utmost importance during this time. Proper foot formation during childhood can prevent leg and back problems later in life. And, if a problem arises, it's easier to treat during childhood. Many things about your child's feet may alarm you, but there's generally no reason to get too worried.

Baby Feet

Feet grow and change very rapidly in the first year of life. They are also very flexible, so care must be taken not to change the shape of the feet permanently. Babies should be allowed to kick and stretch their feet, and shoes and socks should be roomy. Often, infants' feet look like they are turned inward. However, that's rarely a real problem. Talk to your doctor if you have any concerns.

Toddler Feet

Once your child is walking, pay attention to his or her gait. Heel should touch the ground first, not toe. If you notice an abnormality or if your child tends to sit while his or her friends are playing, this could be signs of a foot problem. Consult your doctor, who may prescribe special shoes or orthotic inserts, braces, or splints. They may also teach your child new sitting positions that will help correct in-toeing. However, most children that toe-in will outgrow the problem.

Child Feet

By age 7 or 8, the foot's bone structure is more or less formed. However, a serious injury can happen if the growth plate is damaged. A doctor can generally treat this problem. Any injury that produces serious swelling, localized tenderness, limping, or ongoing night pain should be evaluated. If injured, your child will probably need to wear a case, splint, or brace and may need to use crutches for awhile.

Caring for children isn't easy, but caring for feet during childhood is generally fairly simple and can help prevent many problems later in life. With your help, your child's feet will be prepared for wherever life takes them.

Visit the foot surgeons at McLean County Orthopedics for help caring for your child's feet.