Children's Foot Assessments

Children's feet are different to that of an adult's foot because it is constantly growing and changing. Foot/Leg pain may develop during the growth of a child. Conditions such as developmental flatfoot, intoeing (pigeon feet), toe walking, foot pain due to growth spurt, warts, ingrowing nails etc. are common foot pathologies seen in children.

Our podiatrist’s assess and treat common, acute and chronic children’s foot problems and where appropriate prescribe exercises, orthotics or advice on suitable footwear. We provide education to children on how to look after their feet, including how to use correct cutting techniques to avoid chronic in-growing toe nails.

Children’s feet aren’t fully formed until growth ceases which is usually around 18-20 years of age, when most bones are fully formed. Children’s feet differ from adults as the immature bone structure results in the child’s foot being highly flexible and soft. This often results in children having a flat foot during the early stages of walking. However, the immature foot undergoes various stages of development as the child grows, hence the foot is quite fragile requiring specialist assessment and care. Early intervention of children’s foot problems by a podiatrist is important in trying to prevent and manage long term problems.

Problematic symptoms may include:

Flat feet beyond the age of five years
Severe in-toeing or 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 children’s feet please contact the clinic to make an appointment.