5 Signs Your Child Is Experiencing Foot Problems

Foot and ankle problems aren’t just an adult issue; children are also just as susceptible to injuries, deformities and other problems with their lower extremities. For children, however, the symptoms can often be subtle and go undetected, which could lead to bigger problems in the future.

It is advised that children have regular check-ups with a podiatrist to ensure their feet are properly developing.

In between appointments, parents should watch for the following warning signs to help catch any foot and ankle problems early:

1. Your child doesn’t want to show you their feet: Children often try to hide their feet if they notice a change in appearance or that a deformity is developing. Look for hard skin, swelling, red skin at the corner of toenails, and discoloration of the skin and nails.
2. They are experiencing pain: If your child experienced an injury, which may have led to the pain and has continued for more than a few days, you should make an appointment with a podiatrist to have it evaluated.

3. They complain about their legs and feet being tired: If your child is complaining that their feet and legs are tired, it could be a result of a problem in their feet. A condition called flat feet often leads to fatigue in the legs and feet, which can be corrected with the help of custom orthotics.

4. They fall or trip often: Kids are clumsy, but if falling becomes a common occurrence, there could be a bigger problem to blame. Balance issues, in-toeing and neuromuscular issues could be underlying problems.

5. They don’t participate in activities they enjoy: If your child suddenly doesn’t want to participate in sports they once enjoyed, they could be experiencing pain from repetitive stress placed on the foot.

 

It’s important that you monitor your child’s foot health to ensure that their feet and ankles are developing properly. If you notice that your child is experiencing any of the symptoms above, make an appointment with a podiatrist to have your child evaluated.

To request an appointment with one of the podiatrists at Triad Foot Center, click here or call one of our three convenient office locations in the Piedmont Triad.

Disclaimer: The information and other content provided in our blogs, videos, or in any other content or linked materials are not intended and should not be construed as medical advice, nor is the information a substitute for professional medical expertise or treatment. For a full disclaimer, please click here.