Little Boy Playing with Toy Blocks in Socks

As parents, we focus on our children's overall health, but one area that might get less attention is foot and ankle health. Did you know that healthy feet are essential for a child's development and overall well-being? If not addressed, foot and ankle issues can lead to long-term problems, including difficulty walking, poor posture, and even back pain. At Doctor's Inc., our top doctors are committed to providing gentle, comprehensive care for children and teens. Here's what parents need to know about children's foot health and how our team can help.

1. Foot Development Through Childhood

Children's feet grow rapidly and change significantly during their first few years. A baby's foot is mostly cartilage, developing into 26 bones by adulthood. Here are some key milestones in foot development:

0-6 months: Babies' feet are mostly cartilage and very flexible.
6-12 months: Babies start to stand and walk, and their feet develop strength and structure.
1-3 years: Toddlers' feet become more stable, and arches begin to form.
4-6 years: Feet become more adult-like, with fully formed arches and stronger muscles and ligaments.

Children's feet continue to grow in size until they reach their late teens or early adulthood. Growth spurts, particularly during the preteen and teenage years, can result in rapid increases in foot size. Regularly updating your child's footwear to accommodate this growth is essential for maintaining comfort and support.

2. Choosing the Right Footwear For Growing Feet

Proper footwear plays a crucial role in your child's foot health. Doctor's Inc. recommends the following tips for choosing the right shoes:

Size: Have your child's feet measured regularly, as they can grow quickly. Shoes should fit well and provide enough space for toes to wiggle. Leave a half-inch space between the longest toe and the shoe's end to ensure enough wiggle room.
Support: Look for shoes with a firm heel for ankle support and a flexible sole for natural movement.
Breathability: Shoes made of breathable materials like leather or canvas help prevent sweaty feet and potential infections.
Avoid Hand-me-downs: While saving money is tempting, hand-me-down shoes may not fit properly and can cause foot problems. They may also carry fungal infections like athlete's foot, which can spread to your child's feet.

3. Common Foot Problems in Children

If your child has these common foot problems, our podiatrists at Doctor's Inc. can help:

Flat Feet: Most children under 6 have flat feet due to their feet' flexibility and fat pads. If flat feet persist or cause pain, we offer evaluation and treatment, such as custom orthotics.
Ingrown Toenails: Ingrown toenails can be painful and may require medical treatment. Our podiatrists can treat ingrown toenails and offer advice on nail trimming and foot hygiene to prevent recurrence.
Warts: Plantar warts are common in kids and are caused by a virus entering small cuts. Our team can effectively treat plantar warts using various methods, such as topical medications or SWIFT wart treatment.
Toe Walking: Persistent toe walking can indicate an underlying condition, such as tight heel cords or neuromuscular issues. If your child's toe walks consistently, consult our podiatrists for an evaluation.

4. Keeping Your Child's Feet Clean and Healthy

Our team is committed to educating our patients about foot health, hygiene, and proper footwear. Here are some tips to promote good foot hygiene:

Wash feet daily with mild soap and warm water. Dry thoroughly, especially between toes, to prevent fungal infections. Trimming toenails straight across and avoiding cutting them too short can help prevent ingrown toenails.

Additionally, wearing clean socks made of breathable materials like cotton. By providing the right support and guidance, we can help ensure your child's feet remain healthy and strong.

5. Regular Pediatric Foot Care

Regular checkups are essential for catching potential foot issues early. Our podiatrists recommend scheduling routine appointments to monitor your child's foot health and promptly address concerns.

During these check-ups, we'll assess your child's foot structure and any signs of irritation, redness, or pain. Open communication with your podiatrist is crucial for ensuring your child receives the best possible care. At Doctor's Inc., we encourage parents to:

Ask Questions: If you have any concerns or queries about your child's foot health, don't hesitate to ask our podiatrists. We're here to provide the information and support you need.
Share Observations: Tell us about any changes or issues you've noticed with your child's feet or walking.
Discuss Activities: Inform us about your child's physical activities, sports, and hobbies. This information can help us provide tailored advice on footwear, injury prevention, and foot care.

We understand that visiting a doctor can be intimidating for children. Our podiatrists create a comfortable, friendly environment for your child.

Our top doctors provide education, support, and personalized care to keep your child's feet strong and healthy. We offer the best technology and healthcare products to make sure your child receives the care they need. Call today (936) 273-6000 to schedule an appointment or submit a request here.