Pediatric Foot Problems
Many foot and ankle conditions in kids, if caught early, can be easily treated, correcting the problem before it becomes a lifelong deformity. Common foot disorders in children include in-toeing and out-toeing, flat feet, curved feet, toe walking, inflamed growth plates in the bones, leg cramps and night cramps, ingrown toenails, athlete’s foot, and other skin conditions. Children will often not complain about pain associated with their sport. The demands of soccer, baseball, dance, and gymnastics on the growing child will often uncover underlying developmental problems.
One common myth is that children have “growing pains”. Growth is not painful and soreness and cramping in the feet and legs are not normal. This generally is the result of muscle imbalance or flat feet, which strains the muscles in the feet and legs that are trying to support the foot. A family history of foot problems is significant since many foot problems are hereditary. Often parents are told that their children may “grow out of it.” This may be true in some cases, but a level of reassurance from a specialist can go a long way in easing a parents’ concern.
If you have concerns about your child’s feet, we invite you to call our office to schedule an appointment. You’ll find a tab to request an appointment and the phone number for our clinic conveniently located at the top of this page to get you started.