Children's Foot Assessments

Children's feet are different from those of adults because they are constantly growing and changing. Foot and leg painmay develop during childhood. Conditions such as developmental flatfoot, intoeing (pigeon toes), toe walking, foot pain due to growth spurts, warts and ingrown toenails are common foot conditions seen in children.

Our podiatrists assess and treat common, acute and chronic foot problems in children and, where appropriate, prescribe exercises, orthotics or provide advice on suitable footwear. We provide education to children on how to look after their feet, including how to use correct nail-cutting techniques to help avoid chronic ingrown toenails.

Children’s feet continue to develop and change throughout childhood and adolescence, with the bones and structures of the foot gradually maturing as they grow. Children’s feet differ from those of adults because the immature bone structure results in their feet being highly flexible and soft. This often results in children having flat feet during the early stages of walking. However, the immature foot undergoes various stages of development as the child grows; hence, the foot is quite vulnerable and may require specialist assessment and care. Early intervention for children’s foot problems by a podiatrist is important in helping to prevent and manage long-term problems.

Problematic symptoms may include:

Flat feet beyond the age of five years
Severe intoeing or a pigeon-toed gait
Chronic ingrown toenails
Regular tripping
Excessive shoe wear
Ongoing heel or knee pain
Abnormally shaped toes
Bunions or other deformities
Toe walking
Stiffness in the foot
Limping

If you are concerned about your child’s feet, please contact the clinic to make an appointment.