5 Most Common Pediatric Foot Issues and How to Treat Them

When it comes to children’s health, the development of their feet is often overlooked, but it plays a crucial role in their overall physical growth. 

Children are naturally active, running, jumping, and exploring their surroundings, which means their feet bear a lot of strain. However, like any other part of the body, the feet can experience problems. 

Some foot issues in children are simply a part of growing up, while others may require medical attention. Recognizing these issues early on can help prevent further complications. 

Here are five of the most common pediatric foot issues and how to treat them.

1. Flat Feet (Pes Planus)

Flat feet occur when the arch of the foot does not develop properly, causing the entire sole to touch the ground. While flat feet are common in infants and toddlers, the arch typically forms by age five or six. This condition is most prevalent in countries like South Africa and America. 

Symptoms: Children with flat feet may experience foot pain, especially after physical activity, and may have trouble walking or running for long periods. In some cases, flat feet can cause ankle, knee, or even hip pain due to the altered alignment of the lower limbs.

Treatment: Most cases of flat feet do not require treatment unless they cause pain or mobility issues. If discomfort is present, supportive footwear with arch supports or custom orthotics can help reduce symptoms. However, if the pain still persists or worsens over time, the expert podiatrist clifton nj, suggests more advanced interventions, such as physical therapy or even surgery (in severe cases). 

2. In-Toeing (Pigeon Toes)

In-toeing, also known as pigeon toes, is when a child’s feet point inward when walking or running. This condition is common in young children and often corrects itself without intervention as the child grows. In most cases, in-toeing is due to one of three causes: metatarsus adductus (curving of the foot), tibial torsion (twisting of the shin bone), or femoral anteversion (inward twisting of the thigh bone).

Symptoms: In-toeing is often first noticed when a child starts to walk. Parents may observe their child’s feet turning inward, causing them to trip more frequently or walk with an unusual gait.

Treatment: In the majority of cases, in-toeing will resolve on its own by age eight without any need for treatment. Encouraging the child to walk and play normally helps in natural correction. In more severe cases, physical therapy or specific exercises may be recommended to improve coordination and muscle balance. If in-toeing persists beyond childhood or causes significant mobility issues, a pediatric orthopedic specialist may evaluate the need for bracing or surgery, though these options are rare.

3. Sever’s Disease (Heel Pain)

Sever’s disease is a common cause of heel pain in growing children, particularly those who are active in sports. It occurs when the growth plate in the heel becomes irritated due to repetitive stress and overuse. The condition is most commonly seen in children aged 8 to 14, particularly during growth spurts when bones grow faster than muscles and tendons, creating tension in the heel area.

Symptoms: The primary symptom of Sever’s disease is heel pain, especially during or after physical activity. The pain may be worse after running, jumping, or participating in sports, and can often lead to limping or difficulty walking.

Treatment: Rest is key to managing Sever’s disease, as continued activity can aggravate the condition. Applying ice to the heel after activity can help reduce inflammation and pain. Stretching exercises that target the calf muscles and Achilles tendon can also relieve tension in the heel. Supportive footwear, including cushioned heel inserts or orthotics, may provide additional comfort. The good news is that Sever’s disease usually resolves on its own once the child’s growth slows down.

4. Plantar Warts

Plantar warts are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), which infects the skin on the soles of the feet. These warts often develop on pressure points, such as the heel or ball of the foot, and can be painful, especially when walking or standing. Children are more susceptible to plantar warts due to their frequent barefoot activity in places like locker rooms, swimming pools, or playgrounds.

Symptoms: Plantar warts appear as small, rough growths on the bottom of the foot, sometimes with black dots (clotted blood vessels) in the center. They can be painful when pressure is applied, such as when walking or running.

Treatment: Plantar warts often go away on their own, but they can take months or even years to resolve. Over-the-counter treatments, such as salicylic acid, can help remove the wart gradually. For stubborn or painful warts, a doctor may recommend cryotherapy (freezing the wart off) or laser treatment. Keeping the feet clean, dry, and avoiding walking barefoot in public areas can help prevent new warts from forming.

5. Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails occur when the edge of the toenail grows into the surrounding skin, causing pain, redness, and swelling. This condition often affects the big toe and can result from improper nail trimming, wearing tight shoes, or injury to the toenail. If left untreated, ingrown toenails can lead to infection, making treatment more urgent.

Symptoms: The skin around the affected toenail becomes tender, red, and swollen. As the nail digs into the skin, it may cause sharp pain, and, in severe cases, pus may form if an infection develops.

Treatment: In the early stages, soaking the foot in warm water several times a day can help reduce swelling and relieve discomfort. Wearing open-toed shoes or shoes with a wide-toe box can prevent further irritation. If the ingrown toenail persists, a healthcare provider may need to lift the nail and trim it properly. In cases of recurrent ingrown toenails, partial or complete removal of the affected nail may be necessary to prevent future issues.

Conclusion

Children’s feet undergo rapid changes as they grow, and some foot problems are a natural part of development. However, it’s important for parents to keep an eye on any persistent pain, swelling, or changes in their child’s walking or posture.

Early detection and proper treatment of foot issues can help prevent complications and ensure that children remain active, healthy, and pain-free. If you notice any concerning symptoms, consulting with a pediatric podiatrist or healthcare professional is always a good idea. 

Image: Photo by Jordan Whitt on Unsplash