Foot disorders can affect individuals of any age, including those who have just started walking. In fact, youngsters are more prone to acquiring certain foot and ankle disorders because of the rapid development of their feet. If your child has trouble playing or running, or complains of foot discomfort, kids foot care Fort Worth may be necessary. A podiatrist evaluation has several advantages for kids. Besides evaluating potential issues, your foot specialist can assist in building healthy behaviors and intervene early to avoid the issue from generating complications later. Here are the common reasons to seek pediatric foot care.
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1. In-toeing
In-toeing, sometimes known as “pigeon toes,’ is a disorder in which the tops of a kid’s feet tip inward. It is prevalent among infants and often resolves by the age of five. Nevertheless, it could be problematic for toddlers, particularly if they slip and fall or have only one foot pigeon-toed. Pediatric podiatrists can assist in straightening the feet of your child through stretching exercises and other therapies.
2. Toe-Walking
As their muscles and balance improve, toddlers and infants can start walking on their toes before learning to utilize their complete feet progressively. If your kid continues to walk on tiptoe after two years or walks on tiptoe with only one leg, it could indicate an underlying health problem.
3. Flat Feet
Born with flat feet, kids develop arches as their feet develop, and they transition from crawling to walking. Sadly, not all kids will outgrow flat feet, which cause discomfort in the legs and feet and renders it difficult to keep up with their friends. A pediatric podiatrist can determine if your kid’s foot is progressing normally or if assistance is required to promote arch development.
4. Heel Pain
Heel discomfort in children may result from various conditions. Sever’s disease, a swelling of the growth plate on the heel, is among the most prevalent. If a youngster stands, runs, or walks, the shifting foot dynamics put enormous stress on the Achilles tendon, generating discomfort in the back of the heel.
5. Skin and Nail Disorders
Kids who frequently play barefoot are susceptible to illnesses like plantar warts, toenail fungus, and athlete’s foot. Besides, a kid who chooses to wear shoes that are too tiny may also develop corns, calluses, and ingrown toenails. Timely pediatric care enables early detection of these issues before drastic interventions and therapies are needed.
6. Foot Malformations
Kids can inherit foot deformities like gait issues or foot malformations from their parents that later result in systemic issues. Childhood diagnosis and therapy could decrease the course of many illnesses. For instance, bespoke orthotics may alleviate the discomfort of inherited conditions and position the foot before it is fully matured.
7. Clubfoot
Clubfoot is a typical birth defect that causes one or both feet to look twisted or flattened. Without treatment, clubfoot can lead to arthritis, trouble walking, and permanent disability. Early treatment should include gradual stretching, walking exercises, casting, or surgery.
8. Sports Injuries
Physically active kids put their ankles and feet to work, which increases their risk for overuse injuries. Young athletes might develop stress fractures, tendinitis, turf toe, and shin splints due to strenuous training programs with insufficient rest periods.
Parents want what is best for their kids, including good health. It is crucial to ensure that your kid’s feet are properly cared for, as foot problems can result in more serious problems in the future. Therefore, it is essential to locate a pediatric specialist who can provide expert guidance and care for your kid’s feet.
