FOOT PROBLEMS IN CHILDREN

There is a misconception that children do not need good shoe wear. This is not the case. Children starting at the time they begin to walk need protective shoe wear with good support. These two features do not need to be expensive. If a child is born with an abnormal appearance to their feet it is vital that they be assessed and be under the care of their foot doctor to prevent long term problems.

 

 

When children begin to walk parents will often notice that the feet appear to be flat and without the normal appearing arch. Walking helps to develop the contour of the foot. Children have a layer of fat beneath the foot in the arch area that gives that appearance of an absent arch. As the child grows and walks this fat pad redistributes and the foot develops a more "normal" looking foot. After the child has been walking for a while one can better assess whether the foot is indeed flat and an orthotic device will be needed. Other problems that can be seen in the child include in toeing "pigeon toes" or out toeing "duck walking". It is reasonable to take a young child in for a foot evaluation any time the parents are concerned with the way the child walks. There are some problems that need early investigation such as congenital clubfoot, a limb length discrepancy, injuries, any structural deformities of the foot or frank complaint of pain.

Children can continue to grow until approximately age 21, especially males. This allows plenty of time for injuries to occur and problems to manifest themselves. When a child is allowed to remain with a structural problem of the foot for several years various problems can result, as they get older. Some of these problems include, bunions, hammer toes, heel and arch pain, flat foot, athletic injuries such as sprains and strains and shin splints. Overall, children can experience similar problems as adults as well as congenital problems. Please check out the various foot problems listed on our site to learn more about these specific problems.

ADVICE FROM THE EXPERT: Prolabs are recommended initially for children to help control their foot problem and help contain costs for their parents. However, custom orthotics devices are always best. Very small children may need custom orthotics, as Prolabs may not come in very small children's sizes.

If you have specific questions about your children's feet go to asktheexpert.com and email your questions. You question will be answered by email in return and/or will be posted under ask the expert.