Foot health is a crucial aspect of a child’s overall development. While many parents focus on general health and growth milestones, the health of a child’s feet often goes unnoticed. Proper foot care during childhood can prevent long-term problems and promote healthy mobility as children grow. Here are some key considerations for maintaining children’s foot health and addressing common paediatric foot issues. 

Key Considerations for Children’s Foot Health 

Choosing the Right Footwear   

Children’s feet are still developing, so it’s important to choose shoes that offer the right support. Avoid tight or ill-fitting shoes, as they can restrict natural foot growth and lead to deformities. Choose shoes with wide toe boxes, flexible soles and proper arch support. As children grow, their footwear needs change, so it’s essential to regularly check for size and comfort. 

Hygiene and Nail Care   

Teaching children good hygiene habits, like washing their feet daily and keeping toenails trimmed, is important for preventing infections. Long or improperly cut toenails can lead to painful conditions such as ingrown toenails. Always ensure that nails are cut straight across to avoid this issue. 

Foot Strength and Mobility   

Encouraging barefoot play in safe environments, such as at home, helps in strengthening the muscles of the feet and developing balance. This can contribute to better foot function and mobility as children grow. Engaging in activities that promote movement, such as running, jumping and walking, can also support healthy foot development. 

Monitoring Foot Development   

Keep an eye on how your child walks and runs. If you notice any irregularities such as toe walking, frequent tripping, or an uneven gait, it could signal underlying foot issues. Flat feet, knocked knees, or even excessive arch development are common concerns and early detection is key to proper management. 

Common Paediatric Foot Issues 

• Growing pains 
• Kids heel pain 
• Painful flat feet 
• Regular tripping or falling 
• In-toeing (pigeon-toeing) and out-toeing 
• Shin and leg pain 
• Knee pain 
• Pain after sports 
• Abnormal gait, like toe-walking 
• Instability and incoordination 
• Not being able to keep up with other kids of the same age during running or sports 

How Podiatrists Can Help 

Podiatrists specialise in the diagnosis and treatment of foot conditions. They can assess your child’s foot development, provide custom orthotics if needed and recommend exercises to strengthen the feet. Regular check-ups with a podiatrist ensure that any abnormalities are addressed early, preventing long-term problems and supporting healthy growth.