4 Common Children’s Foot Disorders

04 Nov 4 Common Children’s Foot Disorders

Tracking down foot problems in children can be challenging because they are not always able to fully articulate their symptoms. At Great Neck Family Foot Care, we want parents to know that foot or ankle pain in a child is never “normal.” If you notice that your child is limping, walking on tip toes or some other incorrect way, or if he or she is not participating in usual activities, a foot problem may be the reason. Any pain that persists for more than a few days should be evaluated by one of our board certified foot and ankle surgeons, Dr. Alec Hochstein or Dr. Diana Gagliano. Here are 4 common children’s foot disorders that affect children:

1. Ingrown Toenails A nail that is curving down and growing back into the skin is quite painful and, if it has broken the skin, can actually be infected. Ingrown nails are often caused by shoes or socks that are too tight or not trimming nails straight across. Do not try to dig nail out; leave the treatment to the podiatrist.
2. Plantar Warts These warts are caused by the human papilloma virus and most often form on the bottom of the foot. Plantar warts can grow deep in the skin. If your child has a wart, he or she may complain of pain when walking or standing.
3. Pediatric Flatfoot Lack of arch support sometimes causes children to have cramping in their feet, legs, or knees but often there are no symptoms. You may notice an unusual gait or that your child appears awkward when running or playing sports.
4. Sever’s Disease Also known as Calcaneal Apophysitis, this is an inflammation of the heel’s growth plate. It is a painful condition that most commonly affects youth ages 8 to 14 because the growth plate has not fully developed yet. Sports and activities that involve repeated pounding of the heel can exacerbate Sever’s Disease.

Your child’s feet are the foundation of the rest of the body. Be sure to inspect feet regularly and if you notice anything unusual or your child complains of pain in his or her foot, heel, ankle, or leg, make an appointment at our Great Neck office by calling: (516) 482-5999.