Adults' and children's feet may appear similar at first glance, but they exhibit distinct characteristics and undergo unique developmental changes. Children's feet are more pliable, with softer cartilage and bones that are still growing and forming. As a result, their feet are more susceptible to deformities and structural abnormalities, such as flat feet or toe-walking. Additionally, children often have a higher arch and wider forefoot compared to adults. Over time, as children mature into adults, their feet undergo significant changes. The arches typically become more defined, and the foot structure stabilizes. Adults may also experience changes in foot size and shape due to factors like weight gain, pregnancy, or aging. Furthermore, adults are more prone to conditions like bunions, arthritis, and plantar fasciitis, which can affect foot function and mobility. Understanding these differences is essential for providing appropriate footwear, monitoring development, and addressing any potential issues early on to ensure optimal foot health throughout life. It is suggested that you schedule routine visits for your child with a podiatrist who can closely monitor the growth rate in their feet.
The health of a child’s feet is vital to their overall well-being. If you have any questions regarding foot health, contact one of our podiatrists of New York Foot and Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Tips for Keeping Children's Feet Healthy
- Make sure their shoes fit properly
- Look for any signs of in-toeing or out-toeing
- Check to see if they have Clubfoot (condition that affects your child’s foot and ankle, twisting the heel and toes inward) which is one of the most common nonmajor birth defects.
- Lightly cover your baby’s feet (Tight covers may keep your baby from moving their feet freely, and could prevent normal development)
- Allow your toddler to go shoeless (Shoes can be restricting for a young child’s foot)
- Cut toenails straight across to avoid ingrown toenails
- Keep your child’s foot clean and dry
- Cover cuts and scrapes. Wash any scratches with soap and water and cover them with a bandage until they’ve healed.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Franklin Square, Bethpage, Brooklyn, and Massapequa, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
