Pediatric Foot Care

What is it?

Since young feet are still growing, problems can develop quickly. It is important to catch any conditions before they continue into adulthood. Pay attention to the following as they might indicate possible foot problems your child is experiencing: a change in the wear on their shoes, discoloration of the skin or nails, bumps on the skin, a change in the general coordination and stamina of your child, falling and fatigue and/or if they become unwilling to participate in activities they normally enjoy.

Heel pain in children is unlike that in adults. Adult heel pain generally occurs upon standing and diminishes with walking. In children, heel pain increases with activity. A childs’ heel pain generally is located toward the back of the heel, where adult pain is beneath the heel. In children heel pain may occur after a sudden growth spurt. Pediatricians will refer to this as “growing pains”. The reason for the pain is a result of the leg bones growing at a faster rate than the calf muscle causing the thick tendon in the back of the ankle (Achilles tendon) to exert an abnormal pull on the growth plate in the heel. After a thorough examination including x-rays, a diagnosis can be made, first ruling out a fracture or bone bruise. This condition is known as “apophysitis”. With proper treatment this condition can be easily resolved, eliminating your childs’ pain.