Introduction
Children’s feet are not the same as adult feet. Children’s feet are softer; the bones have not completely formed in them and therefore are more prone to getting damaged easily. Therefore, taking care of a child’s foot health is extremely important.
What Are the Common Foot Health Issues in Children?
The most common foot health issues in children are:
1. Pediatric Flat Feet:
Pediatric flat feet are a common complaint and one of the major concerns of parents. Two things mainly characterize a flat foot: sagging of the medial arch and heel vagus (heel drifting outward). Pediatric flat feet are classified into two- rigid and flexible flat feet. A flexible flat foot is characterized by a normal medial arch during non-weight-bearing positions and a flattened arch during weight-bearing positions.
In most cases, the condition is asymptomatic but can sometimes be rigid and painful. The condition requires continuous monitoring to check for progression, and if progression is seen, then investigations may be necessary to evaluate any underlying pathologies. Treatment options include conservative management options like foot orthotics, exercises, patient education, supportive shoes, and medications. Surgical management is indicated in cases where conservative treatment fails.
2. Intoeing and Outtoeing:
Intoeing is when the toe curves inward during walking or running rather than pointing straight. Outtoeing is a condition in which the feet angle out excessively. Intoeing is a more common condition than out-toeing. Usually, the condition gets corrected independently in children under eight and does not require treatment. However, if the condition persists and produces discomfort, then a pediatrician should be consulted.
3. Clubfoot:
Clubfoot is a non-major birth defect characterized by inward curving of the foot and ankle. It affects one in every thousand newborns. Treatment is done to correct the foot alignment. Non-surgical management options include stretching, casting, and bracing. In some cases, surgical management may be required.
4. Sever’s Disease:
Sever’s Disease (calcaneal apophysitis) is the painful inflammation of the heel’s growth plate. The condition usually affects children ages eight to fourteen. Overuse and repeated stress on the heel bone, especially during sports activities, are the main causes of the condition. Other causes are flat feet, tight Achilles tendons, and obesity. The symptoms include pain at the bottom of the heel, walking on toes, fatigue, etc. The treatment options include activity reduction, pain medication, orthotic devices for heel support, physiotherapy, and immobilization.
5. Plantar Warts:
Plantar warts are small skin growths that mostly develop on the plantar side of the foot due to infection caused by HPV (human papillomavirus). Symptoms include thickened skin and pain while walking or standing. Treatment options include topical treatment, cryotherapy, laser therapy, or surgical removal of warts.
6. Ingrown Toenails:
An ingrown toenail is a curved toenail that grows into the skin. This causes skin irritation, leading to swelling, redness, and pain. If skin breakage occurs, bacterial invasion and infection can occur. It can occur due to trauma, improper nail trimming, wearing improper shoes, or an inherited condition.
What Are the Signs That the Child May Have a Foot Health Issue?
The following signs indicate that the child may be having a foot health issue:
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Persistent toe-walking (more than three years of age).
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Not able to keep balance - frequent tripping and falling.
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Tired feet.
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Pain.
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Gait issues.
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Children do not want others to see their legs due to empressement (foot shyness).
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Excessive inward or outward turn of toes.
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The child does not start walking independently by two years of age.
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Skin rashes, lumps, or bumps on the child’s feet.
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Child complaints of knee or hip pain after running.
How to Take Care of the Child’s Feet?
At the time of birth, children usually have perfect feet, which are subject to deformity at a later stage as the soft cartilage forms into bone. Properly caring for a child’s feet can make them healthy and fit.
When compared to an adult foot, a child’s foot has the following distinctive features:
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It is pliable and softer.
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It is rounder.
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It is widest at the toes and narrowest at the heels.
The following are the tips one can take to keep their baby’s feet in good condition:
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Clean the child’s feet daily with soap and water and dry thoroughly.
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Make sure that the child’s feet are free and active. The feet should not be restricted in movement by tight leggings, bedding, or other foot coverings.
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Ensure that the foot coverings have an adequate fit and are not tight.
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Ensure proper nail cutting. Cut the nails in a straight line and avoid cutting too much down the sides, which can lead to ingrown toenails.
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Allow the child to go barefoot at times.
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Do not force the toddler to walk.
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If the child complains of foot pain or other discomfort, visit a podiatrist or pediatrician.
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Choose adequately fitting socks for the child. Tight-fitting socks can disrupt circulation. Choose socks mostly made of natural fibers like bamboo, cotton, or wool that allow the feet to breathe.
What Should One Consider While Choosing Children’s Footwear?
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Shoes should be avoided for children until they can walk. This means pram shoes should be avoided.
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After taking proper measurements, buy properly fitting shoes from a reputable shop. The shoes should be of proper length, breadth, and depth.
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The shoe should be wider, especially at the toe region, allowing the toes to move. The shoes should fit the natural shape of the foot.
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The shoes should preferably have a buckle or lace. Without these, the child’s toes will claw to hold the shoes.
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The heels should not be too high.
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While choosing a shoe, check for the flexibility (the shoe must bend with the child’s toes), a stiff heel cup, and a rigid shoe in the middle.
Conclusion
Caring for a child’s foot health right from infancy is important. Look out for pain or discomfort, gait issues, skin lesions, etc. Take proper care in shoe selection, nail cutting, foot cleanliness, etc. In the event of any doubts or discomforts, visit a podiatrist.
