We get our children’s teeth checked at a dentist and eyes checked by an optometrist, but have you ever considered checking their feet with a lower limb specialist? Podiatry is relatively less understood than the above mentioned professions.
It is recommended that all children have their feet checked between 4 and 7 years of age to identify any issues early.
Every part of a foot can potentially cause someone problems, and can be treated by us. Bones, ligaments, arteries, veins, nerves, tendons, muscles, fascia, fat, skin and nails – there is a lot involved in getting those feet moving!
But did you know that adult’s and children’s feet are NOT the same? Feet are very complex, and children’s feet are not just little adult feet, but come with a whole new set of potential problems that adult feet won’t suffer.
A podiatrist can assess your child’s legs and feet, and offer advice about footwear that’s right for their foot type and activities. Some common concerns parents present their children with include;
- Flat feet,
Hypermobility (floppy joints),- Toe walking,
- Finding shoes that fit,
- In-toeing (pigeon toed),
- Pain often during/after sports
- ‘Growing pains’ (indication that your child’s legs are not functioning correctly. This type of pain should not be ignored)
We are experts at treating these conditions. Having your child assessed can save you from unnecessary heartache when getting your children ready to send them back to school. Call us now on (07) 4646 2016 or go to podiatrypoint.com.au to book an appointment for your child.
There are also ways that you can help your child straightaway. Here are two common conditions found in childrenand ways you can immediately make a difference to them.
Heel pain
Heel pain in children, known as Severs disease, commonly presents as tenderness and swelling of the heel after physical activity. Sports shoes with lower heel pitches, like soccer and football boots are common contributors to heel pain.
If your child has heel pain (usually after activity) then apply ice and anti-inflammatory gels as required.
The good news is that children are quick healers and treatment is straightforward. If the issue continues then by having your child’s feet assessed by a Podiatrist, tailored stretching plans and orthotics can be recommended.
Simple things that we can recommend include a basic calf stretch will help lengthen the muscles at the back of the leg. This can be performed twice a day whilst brushing teeth.
Toe pain
Ingrown toenails are the most common condition treated in children. Ill fitting shoes, tight socks and incorrect nail trimming can lead to troublesome toes.
If the skin around your child’s toenails is red, swollen and painful to touch, attention may be required. Teach your child to trim their nails straight across and always make sure their shoes fit well. Try to discourage nail picking and tearing.
Salt water baths can be a great way to relieve a troublesome nail. Never try to remove the problem nail at home- this will only exasperate the problem. Book in with your Podiatrist to discuss several treatment options.
84 West Street
Toowoomba Q 4352
Phone 07 4646 2016
Book online now using an online appointment calendar
OR
For remote and rural patients (or stay at home mums who are trying to reduce times with children in waiting rooms!….LOL) we offer virtual appointments using Skype