As podiatrists, we understand that children’s feet are essential to their overall health and well-being. Therefore, this article will discuss the most common musculoskeletal conditions affecting children’s feet and how we can manage them.
Flat Feet
Flat feet, also known as pes planus, is a condition where there is a loss of the arches of the feet. This condition is common in children and usually resolves on its own. However, if your child experiences pain or discomfort, we recommend seeking professional help. Custom orthotics can be prescribed to support the arches of the feet and reduce pain.
Sever’s Disease
Sever’s Disease is a condition that affects the growth plate in the heel bone. It is a common condition in active children and usually affects those between the ages of 8 and 14. Symptoms include heel pain, tenderness, and swelling. Rest, ice, and heel cushions can help to alleviate the pain, and we recommend seeking professional help if symptoms persist.
Ingrown Toenails
Ingrown toenails occur when the nail grows into the skin, causing pain and inflammation. This condition is common in children and can be caused by poorly fitting shoes or improper nail trimming. We recommend wearing shoes that fit well and avoiding tight socks or stockings. In severe cases, we may need to remove part or all of the nails.
Plantar Warts
Plantar warts are human papillomavirus (HPV) infections and can be painful and unsightly. This condition is common in children and can spread through contact with contaminated surfaces. We recommend seeking professional help to remove the wart, as over-the-counter treatments can be ineffective.
FAQ
What are common foot problems with children?
Children’s feet can experience various issues and conditions, including flat feet, plantar warts, ingrown toenails, and Sever’s disease. These conditions can cause pain, discomfort, and limit a child’s mobility. Proper diagnosis and management are important to prevent long-term complications and ensure your child’s feet stay healthy.
What is the most common pediatric foot deformity?
The most common pediatric foot deformity is flat feet or pes planus. Flat feet occur when the arch is flattened, causing the foot to touch the ground completely. While many children will outgrow this condition, others may experience pain or discomfort, and it may require professional intervention.
What is medial foot pain in children?
Medial foot pain in children occurs on the inside of the foot, near the arch. Various factors, including flat feet, overpronation, and improper footwear, can cause medial foot pain. Therefore, a thorough evaluation by a podiatrist is necessary to determine the underlying cause and develop an appropriate management plan.
What is a musculoskeletal assessment of the foot?
A musculoskeletal assessment of the foot is a thorough evaluation of the bones, joints, and soft tissues of the foot and ankle. This assessment can help identify any underlying conditions or deformities that may require management and can also help prevent future foot problems. A podiatrist performs this assessment and may include range of motion testing, gait analysis, and imaging studies.
Conclusion
At Straits Podiatry, we understand the importance of healthy feet in children. If your child is experiencing any foot or ankle pain, we highly recommend seeking professional help. Our team of experienced podiatrists can provide comprehensive evaluation and management to keep your child’s feet healthy and pain-free. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.
By providing comprehensive information on common musculoskeletal conditions that affect children’s feet, we aim to educate parents and caregivers on the importance of seeking professional help when necessary. Our team at Straits Podiatry is dedicated to providing high-quality care and ensuring that your child’s feet stay healthy and pain-free.
Authored and edited by Straits Podiatry.