Nearly 15% of children appear to have flat feet, but as most of these children grow older arches will develop. Unless children are complaining of pain there is no need to interfere with the growing process; however, seeing a podiatrist concerning the arches will not cause any harm and may put a parent’s mind at ease. Additionally, parents can easily tell if their children do have foot problems by looking at the wear and tear patterns on their shoes. Bringing in old shoes to a doctor’s visit can help determine if your child has any potential foot issues. In most cases foot problems can be treated while a child is still young since the bones are still soft.
Keeping an eye on your child’s foot growth is one of the best ways to help keep their feet healthy. If you have any concerns contact one of our podiatrists of Active Foot and Ankle Care, LLC. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Keeping Children's Feet Healthy
Having healthy feet in childhood can help prevent medical problems later in life, namely in the back and legs. As children grow, their feet require different types of care from birth to school-age.
Although babies do not walk yet, it is still very important to take care of their feet.
- Avoid putting tight shoes or socks on his or her feet
- Allow the baby to stretch and kick his or her feet to feel comfortable
As a toddler, kids are now on the move and begin to develop differently. At this age toddlers are getting a feel for walking, so don’t be alarmed if your toddler is unsteady or ‘walks funny’. Be sure the child wears comfortable and protective shoes so that they can grow into their feet properly.
As your child gets older, it is important to teach them how to take care of their feet
- Show them proper hygiene to prevent infections such as fungus
- Be watchful of any pain or injury
- Have all injuries checked by a doctor as soon as possible
- Comfortable, protective shoes should always be worn, especially at play
Children of all ages are constantly developing and growing, and as a parent you want to make sure that nothing is hindering their maturation.
If you have any concerns feel free contact our offices located in Fair Lawn, Englewood, and Riverdale, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
