Children may not always be able to explain what hurts, but changes in how they walk, run, or play can signal that something is wrong. Foot pain in children can come from several causes, including growth plate irritation, flat feet, or overuse from sports. Some may develop heel pain linked to rapid growth, while others may complain of aches in the arch or ball of the foot. Wearing ill-fitting shoes, tight muscles, or minor injuries can also lead to discomfort. Often, kids will try to avoid activities they once enjoyed or begin limping without a clear reason. Since early foot issues can affect development and posture, it is important not to overlook these signs. If your child is showing signs of foot discomfort or walking differently than usual, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist to determine what may be causing the issue, and how to best treat it.
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 Family Foot Care. 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 our offices located in Valatie and Albany, NY. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Gout is a painful, inflammatory form of arthritis. Those affected will typically feel an intense stiffness in the joints of their feet, particularly in the big toe. Schedule a visit to learn about how gout can be managed and treated.
Sever’s disease is a common cause of heel pain in growing children, especially those who are active in sports. It occurs when the growth plate at the back of the heel becomes irritated from repetitive impact or tight calf muscles. Children may complain of pain during or after activity, and the heel may feel tender when pressed. Rest is important to allow healing, and switching to low-impact activities can reduce stress on the heel. Wearing supportive shoes with cushioning, heel lifts, or custom inserts may also help ease discomfort. Stretching exercises for the calves and Achilles tendon can improve flexibility and reduce tension. Most children improve with time and simple care, but the condition can return if stress on the heel continues. If heel pain persists or affects your child’s ability to stay active, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see one of our podiatrists from Family Foot Care. Our doctors can treat your child’s foot and ankle needs.
Sever’s Disease
Sever’s disease is also known as calcaneal apophysitis, which is a medical condition that causes heel pain I none or both feet. The disease is known to affect children between the ages of 8 and 14.
Sever’s disease occurs when part of the child’s heel known as the growth plate (calcaneal epiphysis) is attached to the Achilles tendon. This area can suffer injury when the muscles and tendons of the growing foot do not keep pace with bone growth. Therefore, the constant pain which one experiences at the back of the heel will make the child unable to put any weight on the heel. The child is then forced to walk on their toes.
Symptoms
Acute pain – Pain associated with Sever’s disease is usually felt in the heel when the child engages in physical activity such as walking, jumping and or running.
Highly active – Children who are very active are among the most susceptible in experiencing Sever’s disease, because of the stress and tension placed on their feet.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Valatie and Albany, NY. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle injuries.
Shoes made with low-quality materials or poor construction may seem appealing due to their price, but they can take a toll on your foot health, over time. Without proper support, cushioning, or fit, these shoes may contribute to fatigue, pain, and misalignment in the feet and legs. Flat soles and flimsy arch support can lead to overuse injuries or worsen existing conditions, such as heel pain or hammertoes. Wearing unsupportive footwear regularly may also affect posture and place added strain on the knees, hips, or lower back. Replacing shoes frequently or seeking treatment for chronic foot issues can become more expensive than investing in proper footwear from the start. If you are experiencing foot discomfort that may be related to your shoes, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for expert advice, care, and qualities to look for in good shoes.
Foot Pain
Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from Family Foot Care. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
Causes
Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:
Bunions
Hammertoes
Plantar Fasciitis
Bone Spurs
Corns
Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
Ingrown Toenails
Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.
Treatment
Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Valatie and Albany, NY. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
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