Whether they are toddlers just finding their balance or teens active in sports, children can experience many of the same foot conditions as adults. If you are a parent or caregiver, be on the lookout for any of the following foot conditions that are common in children.
In-Toeing
In-toeing – also known as being pigeon-toed or having metatarsus adductus – occurs when a child’s toes, which should be pointed straight, are turned inward. In-toeing is a common pediatric condition often noticed at birth as a result of there being limited space in the womb, causing the feet to turn inward. In-toeing usually resolves itself as a child grows. In more extreme cases, braces or casts may become necessary, with surgery a possibility if corrective action fails to straighten the bones.
Flatfoot
Flatfoot occurs when the tendon in the back of the ankle becomes inflamed or torn; this can lead to a fallen arch, or flatfoot. While more common in adults, children and teens can develop flatfoot as a result of a sports injury, or because of certain medical conditions such as obesity or diabetes. Without treatment, flatfoot will get worse over time, causing weakness in the foot that prevents standing on the toes. Treatments include managing the swelling with anti-inflammatories as well as casting until the tendon heals. A course of physical therapy will help your child regain range of motion and strength in the foot; your podiatrist may also fit your child with custom orthotics for stability.
Ingrown Toenails
When a child experiences frequent growth spurts, it may be hard to keep up with properly fitting shoes. Tight or ill-fitting shoes can result in ingrown toenails, a very painful condition that can leave the surrounding area tender and infected. A podiatrist can easily remove the infected portion of the nail, relieving pain and removing the threat of further infection.
Plantar Warts
Walking on pool decks or in locker rooms, or wearing damp shoes from soccer or ballet can lead to plantar warts on the bottoms of their feet. Plantar warts are caused by a virus and are highly contagious. Unlike warts on the fingers that grow outward, plantar warts grow into the skin and cause pain when walking or running. Because they are quite stubborn to remove, the best course of action is to have the wart removed by a podiatrist.
Pediatric Foot and Ankle Care in Cincinnati
At Cincinnati Foot & Ankle Care, we believe that early diagnosis is key to positive outcomes, especially when it comes to podiatric foot conditions. Our foot and ankle specialists are committed to providing the highest quality podiatric care to patients of all ages. Plus, we offer a variety of specialty services ranging from arthroscopic foot and ankle surgery to diabetic foot care. If you or your child’s feet are hurting, look no further than Cincinnati Foot & Ankle Care. With convenient locations across southwest Ohio, there is a provider to serve you. Don’t wait. Click here to request an appointment today.
With early identification, we can administer less invasive treatment methods to fix your child’s foot condition so he or she can get back to being a happy, healthy, and active child. If you suspect that your child has podiatric issues, please contact the Cincinnati Foot & Ankle Care clinic nearest you.
