Because children’s feet and ankles are still developing, it’s important for children to take a rest from stressful physical activity such as sports. Some conditions can progress into adulthood, so it’s important for parents to take proper care of their children’s feet. The conditions can include calcaneal apophysitis, inflammation of the heel growth plate; achilles tendonitis, inflammation of the Achilles tendon; plantar fasciitis, inflammation of the tissue that runs along the soles of the feet; and stress fractures, which are small fractures in the bone.
Making sure that your children maintain foot health is very important as they grow up. If you have any questions see one of our podiatrists of New York Foot and Ankle. Our doctors will treat your heel pain symptoms in addition to other podiatric-related needs.
Keeping Children's Feet Healthy
Having healthy feet in childhood can help prevent medical problems later in life, namely in the back and legs. As children grow, their feet require different types of care from birth to school-age.
Although babies do not walk yet, it is still very important to take care of their feet.
- Avoid putting tight shoes or socks on his or her feet
- Allow the baby to stretch and kick his or her feet to feel comfortable
As a toddler, kids are now on the move and begin to develop differently. At this age toddlers are getting a feel for walking, so don’t be alarmed if your toddler is unsteady or ‘walks funny’.
As your child gets older, it is important to teach them how to take care of their feet
- Show them proper hygiene to prevent infections such as fungus
- Be watchful of any pain or injury
- Have all injuries checked by a doctor as soon as possible
- Comfortable, protective shoes should always be worn, especially at play
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Bethpage and Franklin Square, NY. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
